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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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of motif
The coat's striking navy blue velvet base serves as a luxurious backdrop for the golden peacock motifs and floral embellishments that flow from the sleeves down to the hem.
—
Tom Rogers, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Apr. 2025
The pyramid motif is repeated throughout, from the cut of the window panes to the shape of the stones in a water feature situated between the security area and the main building outside.
—Bailey Berg, AFAR Media, 25 Apr. 2025
Anthony scribbled themes and motifs from the English poet’s work.
—Steven Walker, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 Apr. 2025
Another motif of this season is how many of these directors’ later films are not readily available.
—J. Kim Murphy, Variety, 24 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for motif
Tom Rogers, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Apr. 2025
The pyramid motif is repeated throughout, from the cut of the window panes to the shape of the stones in a water feature situated between the security area and the main building outside.
—Bailey Berg, AFAR Media, 25 Apr. 2025
Anthony scribbled themes and motifs from the English poet’s work.
—Steven Walker, The Orlando Sentinel, 19 Apr. 2025
Another motif of this season is how many of these directors’ later films are not readily available.
—J. Kim Murphy, Variety, 24 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for motif
Recent Examples of Synonyms for motif
Noun
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All these themes had been in my head for a long time.—
Elsa Keslassy,
Variety,
12 May 2025
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But if there were random scripts through three games — all high-scoring affairs with one-off themes — Sunday night took the Panthers back to their roots.—
Dave Hyde,
Sun Sentinel,
12 May 2025
Noun
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Years later, his relationship with singer Cassie and his on-and-off romantic relationship with actress Kat Pasion may also show patterns of alleged abuse.—
Taijuan Moorman,
USA Today,
12 May 2025
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This dynamic highlights a recurring pattern: AI implementation often begins as a top-down initiative.—
Benjamin Laker,
Forbes.com,
12 May 2025
Noun
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Support journalism that digs deeper into topics that matter most to Arkansans.—
Frank E. Lockwood,
Arkansas Online,
10 May 2025
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August grief, September suicide prevention, October stress, November anxiety and December anger—a full calendar year of mental health topics.—
Katherine Fung,
MSNBC Newsweek,
9 May 2025
Noun
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My suspicion is that the Air will have a design that will turn heads, and if battery life is acceptable, will prove very popular.—
David Phelan,
Forbes.com,
4 May 2025
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On Thursday, May 1, the model, 28, left a lasting impression at an event in Miami for her beauty brand Rhode by wearing a sparkling Marine Serre design from its fall 2025 collection, made entirely from 500 silver metallic watch straps, per Women's Wear Daily.—
Ingrid Vasquez,
People.com,
3 May 2025
Noun
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While compensation matters, the strongest driver of engagement is a sense of belonging and purpose at work.—
Nikhil Arora,
Forbes.com,
8 May 2025
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More On Voles Raccoons Raccoons are clever, opportunistic feeders, eating whatever’s readily available, including plant and animal matter, garbage, pet food, bird seed, vegetable gardens, and eggs from chicken coops.—
Arricca Elin SanSone,
Southern Living,
8 May 2025
Noun
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The question is: which horse will add its name to the history books on Saturday? 2025 contenders Every jockey, every owner and every trainer wants the chance to win the Kentucky Derby but only one of this year’s 19 horses will do it.—
Ben Church,
CNN Money,
3 May 2025
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Don’t try and lead me in a direction with your questions.—
David Aldridge,
New York Times,
3 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Motif.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motif. Accessed 16 May. 2025.
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