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  1. 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 …

  2. 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.

  3. 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 …

  4. 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 …

  5. 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 – …

  6. 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, …

  7. 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.

  8. 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 …

  9. 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

  10. 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 …

  11. 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.

  12. 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!

  13. 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.

  14. 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 …

  15. motif, n. meanings, etymology and more | Oxford English Dictionary

    motif, n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

  16. 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 …

  17. 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 …

  18. 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.

  19. 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 …