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

My 300-plus-mile itinerary between Los Angeles and San Francisco dipped in and out of these motifs, with surprises along the way. — David G. Allan, CNN Money, 22 Sep. 2026

The brand’s platform styles often feature rhinestone adornments or unique motifs suspended in the empty space. — Amina Ayoud, Footwear News, 20 Sep. 2026

Pathé’O estimates that his employees have produced 300 unique motifs. — Colette Davidson, Christian Science Monitor, 17 Sep. 2026

Venus Williams x Crate & Kids Collection From tennis-ball motifs to her favorite lavender-and-green color combo, Williams’ collection with Crate & Kids is both playful and can easily transition alongside kids and their ever-changing styles. — Claire Hoppe Norgaard, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Sep. 2026

Featuring a series of historical works and new pieces created by the artist on-site during the past month, the exhibition focuses on water and transmutation as its central motifs. — Salomé Gómez-Upegui, ARTnews.com, 10 Sep. 2026

The rooms These hit everything on your bingo card for a stylish hotel room in 2024—there are brass light fixtures, rattan wardrobes, and art-deco curves and tier motifs. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Sep. 2026

From watermelon motifs and disco designs to mesmerizing cat-eye finishes, there’s something for every kind of fan. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 9 Sep. 2026

Many visual motifs emerge, most notably the men in the crowd who shed any inhibitions to cry, dance, and belt the songs at the top of their lungs. — Marshall Shaffer, IndieWire, 5 Sep. 2026