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
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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
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Recent Examples of motifs
Advances in technology mean the motifs are even more vivid and precise this time around, Vuitton said.
—
Joelle Diderich, WWD, 27 Feb. 2025
The apparel collection of Dodgers and Cubs products will include Nike T-shirts, hoodies and jerseys featuring Murakami’s flower motifs.
—Kristie Rieken, Chicago Tribune, 27 Feb. 2025
Their distinct motifs celebrate the art of printmaking and are an ongoing source of inspiration for the latest generation of designers.
—Nadja Sayej, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025
Chinoiserie, or the adaptation of Chinese motifs in Western interiors, swept through England in the 18th century and is still practiced by companies like de Gournay.
—Elise Taylor, Vogue, 26 Feb. 2025
Unlike other brands, Tanner Fletcher wants each collection to feel like an extension of what’s come before — hence the recurring motifs of frilly fringe, delicate lace, and bountiful bows.
—Michael Cuby, Them, 26 Feb. 2025
Welcome warmer days with colorful displays, fresh florals, and pretty spring motifs.
—Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Feb. 2025
The tattoo motifs of the Venezuelan gang, however, are not as clear cut as those of other criminal organizations, like El Salvador’s MS-13.
—Claire Healy, Miami Herald, 26 Feb. 2025
The brand leaned into the runway setting, using delivery motifs such as crates and movers to preview standout accessories in an unexpected way.
—Lisa Lockwood, WWD, 13 Feb. 2025
Joelle Diderich, WWD, 27 Feb. 2025
The apparel collection of Dodgers and Cubs products will include Nike T-shirts, hoodies and jerseys featuring Murakami’s flower motifs.
—Kristie Rieken, Chicago Tribune, 27 Feb. 2025
Their distinct motifs celebrate the art of printmaking and are an ongoing source of inspiration for the latest generation of designers.
—Nadja Sayej, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025
Chinoiserie, or the adaptation of Chinese motifs in Western interiors, swept through England in the 18th century and is still practiced by companies like de Gournay.
—Elise Taylor, Vogue, 26 Feb. 2025
Unlike other brands, Tanner Fletcher wants each collection to feel like an extension of what’s come before — hence the recurring motifs of frilly fringe, delicate lace, and bountiful bows.
—Michael Cuby, Them, 26 Feb. 2025
Welcome warmer days with colorful displays, fresh florals, and pretty spring motifs.
—Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Feb. 2025
The tattoo motifs of the Venezuelan gang, however, are not as clear cut as those of other criminal organizations, like El Salvador’s MS-13.
—Claire Healy, Miami Herald, 26 Feb. 2025
The brand leaned into the runway setting, using delivery motifs such as crates and movers to preview standout accessories in an unexpected way.
—Lisa Lockwood, WWD, 13 Feb. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Motifs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/motifs. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.
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