1
as in theme
a major object of interest or concern (as in a discussion or artistic composition)
the motif of mute figures standing in lonely isolation is a recurrent one in the artist's works
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Recent Examples of motif
Bold geometric motifs, warm earthy hues like ochre, avocado green, and deep browns, plus textured fabrics such as velvet, shag rugs, and macramé wall hangings all add a sense of playfulness and comfort.
—
Shivani Vyas, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Sep. 2025
Stark white leather uppers contrast with shiny asymmetrical green and red accents, plus whimsical bumblebee motifs.
—Amina Ayoud, Glamour, 3 Sep. 2025
Recalling the English folk motif of the tree as possessing healing powers, a clump of soil dug up from an orchard in Lothlórien is used to replenish the scoured Shire.
—Ellen Walker, JSTOR Daily, 3 Sep. 2025
The new collections reimagine the classic Bird on a Rock motif, brought to life by Jean Schlumberger in 1965, and takes its design cues from a bird’s wing, as well as the layered look of a bird’s plumage, to create graceful, sculptural pieces dripping in diamonds and other gemstones.
—Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 2 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for motif
Shivani Vyas, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Sep. 2025
Stark white leather uppers contrast with shiny asymmetrical green and red accents, plus whimsical bumblebee motifs.
—Amina Ayoud, Glamour, 3 Sep. 2025
Recalling the English folk motif of the tree as possessing healing powers, a clump of soil dug up from an orchard in Lothlórien is used to replenish the scoured Shire.
—Ellen Walker, JSTOR Daily, 3 Sep. 2025
The new collections reimagine the classic Bird on a Rock motif, brought to life by Jean Schlumberger in 1965, and takes its design cues from a bird’s wing, as well as the layered look of a bird’s plumage, to create graceful, sculptural pieces dripping in diamonds and other gemstones.
—Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 2 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for motif
Recent Examples of Synonyms for motif
Noun
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The concourses in each stand, for instance, have all been given a different theme, ranging from homages to Everton greats through to fan culture and even the city’s industrial and musical heritage.—
Richard Sutcliffe,
New York Times,
6 Sep. 2025
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The problem is that Di Constanzo seems to be intellectualizing his themes rather than dramatizing them.—
Jordan Mintzer,
HollywoodReporter,
5 Sep. 2025
Noun
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As of 2024, about 28% of young adults were living on their own with jobs – the most common milestone pattern among people ages 25 to 34.—
Sara Chernikoff,
USA Today,
3 Sep. 2025
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The latest clash reflects a broader pattern, with Netanyahu’s government having chronic tensions with the military echelon since the cabinet was sworn in in January 2023, often dismissing military advice.—
Tal Shalev,
CNN Money,
2 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Over the past week, the Dallas Cowboys have been a hot topic in the NFL following their latest franchise-altering move.—
Kevin McCormick,
MSNBC Newsweek,
4 Sep. 2025
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Have a suggestion for a future topic?—
Zach Wichter,
USA Today,
4 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Other Notable Winners NBC’s Saturday Night Live earned recognition beyond its anniversary special, taking home three technical awards in areas like set design, lighting, and sound.—
Marc Berman,
Forbes.com,
8 Sep. 2025
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From Practicality to Personality Butter dishes have a long history; early designs often featured lids or even ice chambers to prevent spoilage.—
Elizabeth Fogarty,
Better Homes & Gardens,
8 Sep. 2025
Noun
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The discussions come in the wake of the shooting at a Minneapolis Catholic school last month that federal officials have said was carried out by a transgender shooter, according to a person familiar with the matter.—
Alanna Durkin Richer,
Chicago Tribune,
6 Sep. 2025
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On the other hand, according to sources familiar with the matter, there is a lack of oversight and accountability regarding areas such as, but not limited to, staff and player recruitment, quality of coaching, day to day operations and long term-planning.—
Charlotte Harpur,
New York Times,
6 Sep. 2025
Noun
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But in the rotation and bullpen, there are also too many questions for comfort.—
Cody Stavenhagen,
New York Times,
8 Sep. 2025
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The complaint states Wallace could not answer questions during an open hearing before the Joint Budget Committee and Profiri stepped in to testify.—
Penny Weaver,
Arkansas Online,
8 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Motif.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motif. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.
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