MOTIFS Synonyms: 72 Similar and Opposite Words

motifs

noun

plural of motif

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

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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

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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 motifs Circular motifs carved into the doors are reminiscent of the portholes of luxury ocean liners that once docked nearby on the Hudson River. — Troy J. McMullen, Architectural Digest, 9 July 2026 Both motifs also appear in Shakespeare’s play, but were not understood clearly until the painting, like a missing puzzle piece, helped connect the dots. — Devorah Lauter, ARTnews.com, 9 July 2026 The aesthetic is a play on laidback, beachy style with colorful prints and floral motifs, plus a level of versatility that makes packing a carry-on for your next vacation as effortless as letting your hair air dry after a swim. — Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 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 The prevailing motifs include Anglo-American boarding schools and college campuses, accoutrements with a romantic aura (billowing sleeves, melting candles), and analog artifacts (old compasses, monocles). — Sophia Zhang, Encyclopedia Britannica, 7 July 2026 Vintage barkcloth is thick cotton fabric that typically features bold floral and tropical motifs. — Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 July 2026 The collection includes the gingham Camparinew pump and Ballerimu mule, inspired by nostalgic Americana picnic motifs. — Stephen Garner, Footwear News, 6 July 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

Recent Examples of Synonyms for motifs

Noun

The whimsy carries over to afternoon tea, served throughout the year in the hotel’s Pavilion and featuring fairytale and wondrous themes.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 July 2026
Capital chased the same companies, the same suppliers, the same data center themes, the same power demand stories, and the same future productivity arguments.

— Jim Osman, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026

Definition of themes

Noun

Flies, those mechanical vectors of disease, may also be worse this year because of weather patterns across much of the US.

— Meg Tirrell, CNN Money, 14 July 2026
In other words, even when prompted to respond as an average citizen of a particular country, the models systematically aligned more with Western patterns of moral values.

— Alexandra Figueroa, The Conversation, 14 July 2026

Definition of patterns

Noun

During his tenure, Rousteing spearheaded the creation of the ‘Balmain Army’, a diverse and influential community of models, influencers, and celebrities that included figures such as the Kardashians.

— Laure Guilbault, Vogue, 14 July 2026
The narrative centers on the early careers and shifting dynamic between legendary figures Cao Cao and Yuan Shao as political corruption, peasant rebellions, and personal ambitions push the capital of Luoyang into absolute chaos.

— Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 13 July 2026

Definition of figures

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
The emotional Moon conjoins driven Mars in your 8th House of Intimacy and Shared Resources, bringing momentum to matters involving money, privacy, trust, or joint responsibilities.

— Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 11 July 2026

Definition of matters

Noun

But scrutiny of the project intensified after preliminary designs were released late last year.

— DJ Simmons, Charlotte Observer, 16 July 2026
Though not archaeological, the designs tapped into a related appetite for inherited craft and materials with ephemera from the past.

— Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 16 July 2026

Definition of designs

Noun

Saleh sometimes leads painting workshops where participants can decorate items like ornaments and lampshades.

— Lisa Boone, Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2026
For the past decade, Heidi Vermilyea has been in charge of the parade souvenirs, selling hats, t-shirts, and Christmas tree ornaments out of a blue trailer.

— Susan Bence, NPR, 4 July 2026

Definition of ornaments

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motif

motifs

motile

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“Motifs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motifs. Accessed 17 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of motifs

noun

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