Synonyms of motif

motif

noun

mō-ˈtēf 

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

• theme
• topic
• matter
• question
• subject
• content
• essence
• motive
• idea
• issue
• purpose
• problem
• core
• subject matter
• heart
• substance
• basis
• consideration
• staple
• bulk
• count
• fundamental
• nucleus
• body
• burden
• pivot
• main
• essential
• kernel
• point
• sum
• centerpiece
• mass
• argument
• net
• marrow
• talking point
• generality
• affair
• debate
• crux
• bottom
• gist
• essentiality
• pith
• nub
• keynote
• purport
• grist
• nubbin
• quick

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• aside
• tangent
• excursion
• digression
• parenthesis
• interjection

2

as in pattern

a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric)

the fabric for the upholstery features a scallop shell motif

Synonyms & Similar Words

• pattern
• design
• ornament
• decoration
• motive
• figure
• scheme
• adornment
• device
• trim
• embellishment
• garnish
• frill
• caparison

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of motif

Stained glass lamps in the Tiffany style fall under the same umbrella, though those tend to feature more ornate floral and Art Nouveau motifs inspired by Louis Comfort Tiffany’s original late-19th-century designs. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 17 Aug. 2026

But this film’s logic lies in the edit, starting and ending with a stop-start stutter motif that jars us into this world of a small Oklahoma town, where a bluegrass band jams in a restaurant parking lot. — Katie Walsh, Los Angeles Times, 14 Aug. 2026

And midcentury Italian treasures, like the Osvaldo Borsani floor lamp in the living room with an ivy motif creeping up its base, add a touch of glamour. — Hannah Martin, Architectural Digest, 14 Aug. 2026

His designs were distinguished by adventurous use of color and unconventional materials, often incorporating motifs drawn from nature, animals and the fantastical. — Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026