motif

noun

mō-ˈtēf How to pronounce motif (audio)
Definition of motifnext
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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of motif Take its brown-and-white Della reversible swimsuit, rendered in a striking swirl motif. — Kelsey Stewart, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2026 Dior has transformed beach clubs such as Il Riccio in Capri into living expressions of the Dioriviera collection, extending its iconic Toile de Jouy motif across cabanas, loungers and even traditional wooden boats. — Kate Hardcastle, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026 The work begins with her transition and moves through the motifs, people and community figures who have helped shape her understanding of herself. — Kansas City Star, 8 July 2026 How does this recurring motif tie into broader themes of grief, hope, and cultural identity in your analysis? — Tim Brinkhof, JSTOR Daily, 8 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for motif
Recent Examples of Synonyms for motif
  1. theme
  2. pattern
  3. topic
  4. design
  5. matter
  6. question
Noun
  • While the theme words will not be a proper name, the spangram can be a proper name.
    — Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 6 July 2026
  • This is a realm of exposition-heavy opening credits, relentlessly earwormy theme tunes, and heroes who, for no obvious reason, choose to hang out with cute/annoying [delete as appropriate] comedy sidekicks like Orko and Snarf.
    — Richard Edwards, Space.com, 5 July 2026
Definition of theme
Noun
  • Carmona suggests opting for a repeating pattern that works well in smaller doses, and then painting the rest of the wall to create contrast and depth.
    — Marisa Suzanne Martin, The Spruce, 8 July 2026
  • But instead of slipping into fixer mode, reflect on what the situation is exposing to you about an emotional pattern.
    — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 8 July 2026
Definition of pattern
Noun
  • Comment Follow topics and authors from this story to see more like this in your personalized homepage feed and to receive email updates.
    — Terrence O'Brien, The Verge, 11 July 2026
  • Later the internet would help Lillard stay informed and learn about all sorts of topics, including her disease, which paralyzed her from the neck down.
    — CNN Money, CNN Money, 11 July 2026
Definition of topic
Noun
  • The plug-and-play design can be installed using a heavy-duty forklift and relies on simple air cooling instead of more complex liquid cooling systems.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 10 July 2026
  • The costume design course was announced earlier this year, alongside the appointment of three-time Oscar-winning costumer designer Sandy Powell as its ambassador.
    — Alex Ritman, Variety, 9 July 2026
Definition of design
Noun
  • Few fans walk to game Though traffic has generally been better around the stadium since the last time Argentina was in town, some fans are still taking matters into their own hands, seen walking along the road two hours leading up to kickoff.
    — The Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 12 July 2026
  • Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is expected to travel to Oman on Saturday to discuss the Strait of Hormuz and broader regional developments, a source familiar with the matter told CNN Friday.
    — Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 11 July 2026
Definition of matter
Noun
  • Their absence from the London leg of the trip now raises questions about whether a family reunion will happen during the visit.
    — Simon Perry, PEOPLE, 6 July 2026
  • The questions Mozeliak asks and answers now are the same ones Kasten did with the Dodgers.
    — Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 6 July 2026
Definition of question

Browse Nearby Words

mother wit
motif
motifs
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Cite this Entry

“Motif.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motif. Accessed 13 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on motif

Nglish: Translation of motif for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about motif

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