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Meaning of motif
A motif is a recurring idea, image, or pattern in a work of art, literature, or music.
Etymology of motif
The word "motif" comes from the French language, where it is derived from the Old French word "mot", meaning "word" or "phrase".
The term "motif" has been used in English since the 18th century to describe a recurring idea or pattern in art, literature, or music.
In the 19th century, the term "motif" was adopted by musicologists to describe a short melodic idea or pattern that is repeated or varied in a piece of music.
Synonyms
theme
pattern
design
idea
concept
notion
subject
topic
matter
concern
issue
element
component
part
feature
aspect
detail
symbol
image
figure
device
technique
style
fashion
trend
convention
tradition
custom
practice
habit
routine
motif
leitmotif
theme song
refrain
repetition
rhythm
beat
pulse
cadence
measure
harmony
melody
tune
air
strain
phrase
idiom
expression
saying
proverb
axiom
maxim
adage
slogan
catchword
catchphrase
byword
cliché
stereotype
formula
convention
stereotype
Definitions
- A motif is a distinctive feature or element in a work of art, literature, or music that is repeated or varied to create a sense of unity or coherence.
- * A motif can be a recurring idea, image, or pattern that is used to convey a particular theme or message.
- * In music, a motif is a short melodic idea or pattern that is repeated or varied to create a sense of continuity or structure.
Usage Examples
- The novel explores the motif of love and loss through the eyes of its protagonist.
- * The artist used a recurring motif of flowers and trees in her paintings to symbolize growth and renewal.
- * The composer wove a musical motif throughout the symphony to create a sense of unity and cohesion.