First Known Use: 1848
Dictionary
motif
noun mo·tif \mō-ˈtēf\
: something (such as an important idea or subject) that is repeated throughout a book, story, etc.
: a single or repeated design or pattern
Full Definition of MOTIF
1
: a usually recurring salient thematic element (as in the arts); especially : a dominant idea or central theme
2
: a single or repeated design or color
— mo·tif·ic \-ˈtē-fik, -ˈti-\ adjective
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Examples of MOTIF
- … a hip awareness of its own cheesy implausibility, right down to the music: The thunderously orchestrated score uses “Itsy Bitsy Spider” as a motif. —People, 29 July 2002
- In retrospect, it is now clear that the alien invasion motif in 1950s science fiction movies reflected the Cold War atmosphere of the period. —Paul A. Cantor, Gilligan Unbound, 2001
- The first-class scowl, shaved head and scars on his right shoulder and biceps fit the tough-guy motif, but it's a facade. —Ric Bucher, ESPN, 28 May 2001
- The branding is done by combining a commercial trademark with one or another subcultural motif, a subculture the buyer belongs to or wants to join: surfing, skateboarding, … —John Seabrook, New Yorker, 20 Sept. 1999
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Origin of MOTIF
French, motive, motif, from Middle French — more at motive
Medical Dictionary
motif
noun mo·tif \mō-ˈtēf\
Medical Definition of MOTIF
: a distinctive usually recurrent molecular sequence (as of amino acids or base pairs) or structural elements (as of secondary protein structures) <a simple protein motif consisting of two alpha helices>
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