
MOTIF Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster
What exactly is a motif? And how is it different from a leitmotif? In works of art, a motif is an important and noticeable element or feature that typically appears throughout the work. It can …
MOTIF Definition & Meaning | Dictionary.com
MOTIF definition: a recurring subject, theme, idea, etc., especially in a literary, artistic, or musical work. See examples of motif used in a sentence.
Motif - Definition and Examples | LitCharts
In music, for example, a motif is a short series of notes that repeats throughout a song or track. In art, a motif is a design or pattern that repeats in different parts of an artwork, or in different …
MOTIF | English meaning - Cambridge Dictionary
A motif is also an idea that appears repeatedly in the work of an artist or in a piece of writing or music. Three other motifs are also common between each dataset's list of 20 most significant …
Motif - definition of motif by The Free Dictionary
Define motif. motif synonyms, motif pronunciation, motif translation, English dictionary definition of motif. recurring theme, subject, or idea: the motif of the song Not to be confused with: motive – …
Motif - Examples and Definition of Motif - Literary Devices
A motif is a recurring element – an image, object, idea, color, sound, or even a specific type of event – that has symbolic significance in a story. It is not the plot itself, nor the main theme, …
motif noun - Definition, pictures, pronunciation and usage notes ...
Definition of motif noun in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
Motif - Definition, Meaning & Synonyms | Vocabulary.com
Think about a pattern or design that moves throughout something when you hear motif. Have you ever been to a restaurant with a tropical or Wild West motif? Do you like dresses with a floral …
Motif Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary
MOTIF meaning: 1 : something (such as an important idea or subject) that is repeated throughout a book, story, etc.; 2 : a single or repeated design or pattern
What is a Motif? || Oregon State Guide to Literary Terms
Oct 26, 2021 · What is a motif? A motif is a repeated pattern—an image, sound, word, or symbol that comes back again and again within a particular story. Ok, that’s simple enough. The larger …
MOTIF definition and meaning | Collins English Dictionary
A motif is a theme or idea that is frequently repeated throughout a piece of literature or music. Shipwrecks are a recurring motif in her writings.
What Is a Motif? Motifs Defined + 10 Illuminating Examples
Sep 13, 2025 · A motif in literature is something that's often analyzed, yet easily muddled. In this guide, we'll define exactly what is a motif using 10 helpful examples!
Literary Motifs: What is a Motif in Literature? - Writers.com
Apr 25, 2025 · A motif is recurring ideas or images that lend a piece of writing structure and complexity. Identify and write literary motifs here.
Motif: Definition, Meaning, and Example Trinka
May 29, 2025 · A motif is a recurring element such as an idea, trait, or phrase that adds depth to a story by reinforcing themes and emotions. Its repetition creates patterns, guiding readers …
motif, n. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary
motif, n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary
MOTIF | definition in the Cambridge English Dictionary
A motif is also an idea that appears repeatedly in the work of an artist or in a piece of writing or music. They also form the basis of a code in which the significance of a given pattern or motif …
Motif Definition - English 11 Key Term | Fiveable
A motif is a recurring element that has symbolic significance in a story, helping to develop themes and create meaning. These elements can be images, ideas, sounds, or words that appear …
MOTIF definition in American English | Collins English Dictionary
A motif is a theme or idea that is frequently repeated throughout a piece of literature or music. Shipwrecks are a recurring motif in her writings.
Motif (music) - Wikipedia
A harmonic motif is a series of chords defined in the abstract, that is, without reference to melody or rhythm. A melodic motif is a melodic formula, established without reference to intervals. A …