Synonyms of motifs

motifs

noun

plural of motif

1

as in themes

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

• themes
• topics
• matters
• subjects
• questions
• contents
• motives
• ideas
• essences
• issues
• problems
• purposes
• substances
• hearts
• considerations
• subject matters
• cores
• counts
• staples
• masses
• bases
• nuclei
• fundamentals
• kernels
• bodies
• points
• nets
• pivots
• burdens
• essentials
• talking points
• sums
• generalities
• arguments
• mains
• debates
• centerpieces
• bulks
• affairs
• piths
• essentialities
• grists
• cruxes
• bottoms
• nubs
• keynotes
• gists
• marrows
• purports
• nubbins
• quicks

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• excursions
• parentheses
• tangents
• digressions
• asides
• interjections

2

as in patterns

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

• patterns
• figures
• designs
• ornaments
• motives
• decorations
• adornments
• devices
• schemes
• embellishments
• trims
• frills
• garnishes
• caparisons

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of motifs

Simple designs feature seasonal color themes or basic designs, while more ornate doormats feature intricate motifs or novelty shapes. — Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 3 Nov. 2026

Designed from scratch, the NHL and Fanatics aimed to get details like local landmarks, motifs and culture more involved when creating the jerseys for each team. — Scott Thompson Outkick, FOXNews.com, 2 Nov. 2026

Extracted from circumstance, even the most Judd-like spatial and material moves become just a repertoire of motifs. — Julian Rose, Artforum, 1 Nov. 2026

In need of equipment to maintain his California ranch, Hetfield commissioned a one-off Case TV450B skid-steer track loader adorned with Metallica motifs. — Stephen Edelstein, The Drive, 1 Nov. 2026

The interiors are informed by Bakarian’s sense of quiet maximalism, mixing vintage Palm Beach motifs and midcentury appeal, without losing sight of Pensacola’s rich history. — Terry Ward, Travel + Leisure, 31 Oct. 2026

For the residency, Golann produced a monumental wooden vessel adorned with nature motifs carved in bas relief. — Harrison Jacobs, ARTnews.com, 30 Oct. 2026

In 2018, Mao began working with the Palace Museum, drawing on traditional Chinese imagery and motifs for annual collections. — Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 30 Oct. 2026

Drawing upon classic English country house motifs, her own family memories, and the blazing colors of New England fall, the star designer has conjured a series of instant heirlooms. — Sam Cochran, Architectural Digest, 27 Oct. 2026