motif

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun

A recurring or dominant element; an artistic theme.
A short melodic or lyrical passage that is repeated in several parts of a work.
A decorative figure that is repeated in a design or pattern.
A decorative appliqué design or figure, as of lace or velvet, used in trimming.
The physical object or objects repeated at each point of a lattice. Usually atoms or molecules.
A basic element of a move in terms of why the piece moves and how it supports the fulfilment of a stipulation.
In a nucleotide or aminoacid sequence, pattern that is widespread and has, or is conjectured to have, a biological significance.

/moʊˈtiːf/ en-us-motif.ogg

motif motifs

From French motif (1848), with the meaning of "main idea or theme". Doublet of motive.

motive phosphomotif leitmotif motify

antimotif BACH motif biomotif intermotif minimotif motifeme motific motifless motivic network motif pseudomotif submotif supermotif

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