1
as in theme
a major object of interest or concern (as in a discussion or artistic composition)
the motif of mute figures standing in lonely isolation is a recurrent one in the artist's works
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Examples Sentences
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Recent Examples of motif
The tree’s fluffy design adds soft texture and the bright butterfly motifs give the tree a playful finish.
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Emma Kershaw, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
Listening to Ziad Rahbani’s music pushed us to experiment with arranging, layering and trying to develop our musical motifs.
—Ron Hart, SPIN, 9 Dec. 2024
The floor-length, long-sleeve gown included shades of purple, blue and cream with floral motifs delicately designed on the glossy fabric.
—Julia Teti, WWD, 6 Dec. 2024
Another watch uses a woven chevron motif of gold and enamel in an asymmetrical winged shape, with a dial in the same gold chevron pattern.
—Shannon Adducci, Robb Report, 6 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for motif 
Emma Kershaw, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
Listening to Ziad Rahbani’s music pushed us to experiment with arranging, layering and trying to develop our musical motifs.
—Ron Hart, SPIN, 9 Dec. 2024
The floor-length, long-sleeve gown included shades of purple, blue and cream with floral motifs delicately designed on the glossy fabric.
—Julia Teti, WWD, 6 Dec. 2024
Another watch uses a woven chevron motif of gold and enamel in an asymmetrical winged shape, with a dial in the same gold chevron pattern.
—Shannon Adducci, Robb Report, 6 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for motif
Recent Examples of Synonyms for motif
Noun
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Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills Readers who analyze intricate plots, characters, and themes develop their critical thinking.Harrison Monarth, Forbes, 25 Dec. 2024
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The other standout theme that’s driven this year’s outperformers is crypto.Ari Levy, CNBC, 25 Dec. 2024
Noun
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The long-term shifts in weather patterns diminish the eagles' natural habitat and prey, and could also present hurdles to reproduction.Andy Biggs, Newsweek, 25 Dec. 2024
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The dream of a white Christmas is becoming increasingly elusive for much of the U.S., as climate trends and shifting weather patterns reduce the likelihood of snow on December 25.Dianne Plummer, Forbes, 25 Dec. 2024
Noun
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But legal experts have pushed back on the idea that a constitutional convention could be convened around a single topic.Julia Wick, Los Angeles Times, 22 Dec. 2024
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Support journalism that digs deeper into topics that matter most to Arkansans.Josh Snyder, arkansasonline.com, 22 Dec. 2024
Noun
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King stayed abroad for a bit, enrolling in design school in Leicester, England, and later lived in Las Vegas, Nevada for many years.Olivia B. Waxman, TIME, 20 Dec. 2024
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The front of the quarters will still display George Washington, but not the design created by John Flanagan that’s typically used, which first appeared in 1932.Julia Binswanger, Smithsonian Magazine, 20 Dec. 2024
Noun
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At a lunch on Monday with members of the press, President Joan Laporta spoke on the matter and attempted to put minds at rest.Tom Sanderson, Forbes, 21 Dec. 2024
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Last month, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told reporters that replacing Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports with U.S. volumes would be cheaper, and that the EU would look to engage and negotiate on the matter when Trump takes office in 2025.Jenni Reid,Silvia Amaro, CNBC, 20 Dec. 2024
Noun
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Sadly, the mainstream media hasn’t bothered to ask me any questions about it.Ronald J. Hansen, The Arizona Republic, 17 Dec. 2024
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Honest questions about food safety, illustrated How real is the five-second rule?Malaka Gharib, NPR, 16 Dec. 2024
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Cite this Entry
“Motif.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motif. Accessed 31 Dec. 2024.
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