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

She's also experimented with turning some iconic scenes from the war into new embroidery motifs. — ABC News, 30 June 2026

The design is made up of classic patterns and prints, including diamond shapes, medallions, abstract geometric motifs, and vertical columns to give it a structured look. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 27 June 2026

The Oscar-winning actress’ dress was comprised of pink lace and featured semi-sheer fabric beneath the botanical motifs throughout the delicate material. — Julia Teti, Footwear News, 24 June 2026

Designers like Chloé continue to embrace billowy blouses, floral motifs, and XL belts, while Dior doubled down on blooms in its Haute Couture collection. — Amanda Le, InStyle, 2 July 2026

For those of us who had never considered this, Sans Visage serves as a striking and unexpected transmission from the other side—a Stockhausen-esque mood piece haunted by glassy piano motifs and musique concrète-style arrangement. — Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 26 June 2026

The hotel’s design, by Stonehill Taylor, marries New England iconography with Asian motifs that ring true to Raffles’ origins in Singapore. — Andrew Sessa, Robb Report, 2 July 2026

Designed by Japanese firm GLAMOROUS, some are more floral and feminine (butterfly motifs and purple). — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 June 2026

Joe Kramm | Courtesy of Francis Interiors The gold background is a spread of bold graphic lines, undulating shapes and coiling circular motifs, referencing the work of French artist, sculptor and designer Jean Dunand (1877–1942). — R. Daniel Foster, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026