Motifs Meaning and Definition
Motifs
Pronunciation
/məˈtɪfz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A dominant or recurring theme or idea in a work of art, literature, or music, that gives the work its underlying structure and meaning.
Examples
- In literature, the motifs of war and sacrifice provide the underlying themes of the novel.
- In art, the motif of love is repeated throughout the artist’s work.
Synonyms
- Theme
- Idea
Antonyms
- Oversight
- Lack
Etymology
The word “motif” comes from the French, derived from the Latin “motus,” meaning “movement” or “emotion.” It was first used in the 16th century to describe the central idea or theme of a work of art.
Usage Notes
Motif is often used in literary and artistic analysis to describe the underlying themes or ideas that give a work its meaning and significance. It can also be used more broadly to describe a recurring theme or idea in a particular culture or society.
Cultural References
The word “motif” is often used in cultural references, such as in the title of the novel “The Motif of the Opera” or in the theme song of the TV show “The Motif of the Bay.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
A dominant or recurring theme or idea that runs through a particular work or period of time.
Related Words or Phrases
Collocations
Frequency of Use
The word “motif” is used relatively frequently in literary and artistic analysis, as it is essential to understanding the underlying themes and ideas of a work.
Common Misspellings