motifs

noun

plural of motif
1
as in themes
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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in patterns
a unit of decoration that is repeated all over something (as a fabric) the fabric for the upholstery features a scallop shell motif

Synonyms & Similar Words

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of motifs The vibrant floral motifs and creamy white hue ooze sophistication, while the dainty size is perfect for carrying your phone, keys, lipstick, and wallet. — Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 3 Sep. 2026 Alternatively, the sleek lines could fit in living spaces with Art Deco motifs and could play nice with other metal finishes. — Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 2 Sep. 2026 Another, Undine kommt (Undine Comes), 2025, has its head in profile with a frontal eye, evoking the conventions of ancient Egyptian art and prehistoric female figurines, motifs that permeate Stötzer’s drawings, writings, and costumes. — Elisa R. Linn, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2026 The bride followed a tradition of wearing red for her Indian ceremony the next day, choosing a red Sabyasachi sari with vintage motifs of rickshaws and gramophones. — Shelby Wax, Vogue, 1 Sep. 2026 Heritage lingerie references, natural materials, nostalgic motifs and traditional techniques are being reinterpreted through contemporary silhouettes, technologies and styling. — Sj Studio, Footwear News, 1 Sep. 2026 Nonetheless, his corpus boasts certain continuities and several recurring motifs. — Becca Rothfeld, New Yorker, 29 Aug. 2026 Plenty of houses have motifs that are revisited season after season. — Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 29 Aug. 2026 Repetitive motifs in various shapes were her trademark, resembling netting, swirls or worms, but most often dots, dancing proudly on her canvases or as sparkling balls or dots of light in her installations in all their vibrant, psychedelic glory. — Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for motifs
  1. themes
  2. patterns
  3. topics
  4. figures
  5. matters
  6. designs
  7. subjects
  8. ornaments
Noun
  • Here’s a look at the most important details and themes from the cutdown to 53.
    — Paul Dehner Jr, New York Times, 31 Aug. 2026
  • This seamless blend of Lego bricks and themes is just perfect, without making a mockery of the wider idea.
    — Matt Gardner, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026
Definition of themes
Noun
  • Does the recruiter assess candidate fit, or does the system flag emotional patterns that override human judgment?
    — Dr. Nore Salman, Forbes.com, 1 Sep. 2026
  • The supply shortage for memory and components shows few signs of abating, signaling that gadgets may be more expensive going forward, permanently changing demand patterns and competition.
    — Kif Leswing, CNBC, 1 Sep. 2026
Definition of patterns
Noun
  • On the first night of training camp, the Rams’ defensive line coach sat down with each of his charges individually and, among other topics, talked about Aaron Donald.
    — Gary Klein, Los Angeles Times, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Brendel Clark writes about real estate and other topics for the Detroit Free Press.
    — Brendel Clark, Freep.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of topics
Noun
  • But Jarmond later worked with a search committee that included prominent UCLA figures Bob Myers, Adam Peters and Casey Wasserman on the hiring of Bob Chesney, who quickly injected hope and optimism into the football program.
    — Ira Gorawara, New York Times, 1 Sep. 2026
  • The backlash went beyond online and reached political figures like New York City Council Speaker Julie Menin, who sent The Met committee a letter urging them to reconsider honoring Galliano.
    — Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of figures
Noun
  • On Thursday, Pittman stated that personnel matters of public agencies, such as local school districts, do not rise to the level of federal judicial review.
    — Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Aug. 2026
  • How to use a bidet correctly Technique matters because every part of the process involves delicate tissue and bacteria.
    — Hanna Wickes, Sacbee.com, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of matters
Noun
  • Sergio tells Bryan that his designs are incongruent, and everyone has a problem with the crotch on his gown.
    — Rafaela Bassili, Vulture, 4 Sep. 2026
  • His son, in partnership with close friends behind Bolivia’s best boutique hotel brand Panorama (known for Met and Atix in La Paz), teamed up to bring Ugalde’s vision to life, true to his original designs.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of designs
Noun
  • Meghna Gulzar has a very distinctive voice and an ability to approach difficult subjects with both restraint and intensity.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 28 Aug. 2026
  • But the Duffys simply are not forthright or interesting enough to be compelling subjects.
    — Kathryn VanArendonk, Vulture, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of subjects
Noun
  • Especially memorable designs include its Naga choker, wherein each gem represents ornaments worn by a different native tribe, and its Naga orchid necklace, inspired by the nearly 400 species of the flowering plant found in the region.
    — Sohini Dey, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Sep. 2026
  • So are the Catholic lawn ornaments and gardens sprouting eggplants and figs.
    — Rachel Corbett, Curbed, 31 Aug. 2026
Definition of ornaments

Browse Nearby Words

motif
motifs
motile
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Cite this Entry

“Motifs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motifs. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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