'Motif' definitions:

Definition of 'motif'

(from WordNet)
noun
A design or figure that consists of recurring shapes or colors, as in architecture or decoration [syn: motif, motive]
noun
A theme that is repeated or elaborated in a piece of music [syn: motif, motive]
noun
A unifying idea that is a recurrent element in literary or artistic work; "it was the usual `boy gets girl' theme" [syn: theme, motif]

Definition of 'Motif'

From: GCIDE
  • Motif \Mo"tif\, n. [F.] Motive. [archaic] [1913 Webster]
  • 2. In literature and the fine arts, a salient feature or element of a composition or work; esp., the theme, or central or dominant feature; specif. (Music), a motive[3]. See also leitmotif. [Webster 1913 Suppl. +PJC]
  • This motif, of old things lost, is a favorite one for the serious ballade. --R. M. Alden. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
  • The design . . . is . . . based on the peacock -- a motif favored by decorative artists of all ages. --R. D. Benn. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
  • 3. (Dressmaking) A decorative appliqu['e] design or figure, as of lace or velvet, used in trimming; also, a repeated design. [Webster 1913 Suppl. +PJC]

Synonyms of 'motif'

From: Moby Thesaurus

Words containing 'Motif'