You searched for: “motif
motif (noun), motifs (pl)
1. A recurring or dominant element; a theme: Jack asked, "Tom, did you see how the artist repeats the motif throughout his work?"
2. In music, a short melodic passage that is repeated in several parts of a composition: The simple motif, or sequence of notes, in the beginning of the sonate is heard many times throughout the piece.
3. A decorative figure that is repeated in a design or pattern: Little Lynn liked the cat motif on her new wallpaper in her bedroom very much.
4. When making dresses, a decorative appliqué design or figure, as of lace or velvet, used in trimming: When Susan was sewing her new blouse, she wanted to have a motif of tatting along the collar and cuffs of the sleeves.
5. Etymology: from French motif, "main idea or theme".
A dominant feature of design.
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This entry is located in the following unit: Words of French origin (page 6)