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 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 Her looks often incorporated classic country motifs like cowboy hats or bell-bottom jeans, though usually made Dolly-appropriate with a healthy helping of sparkles and vibrant hues. — Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 26 Aug. 2026 Its range leans in a bolder direction, from floral motifs to more Deco-style designs like the MetroChic collection which incorporates geometric black-and-gold details. — Angela Tafoya, Architectural Digest, 21 Aug. 2026 Instead, take Chappell’s advice and try pairing a few bold graphic tiles with some textured solids or more subtle motifs for a beautiful sense of rhythm that feels sophisticated rather than overwhelming. — Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Aug. 2026 Things do shift from time to time, but the thread through all the different motifs would be my kind of stubborn minimalism. — Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2026 Per its Sotheby’s auction listing, scrolls of diamonds are interrupted by sparkling floral motifs, while a romantic heart emblem sits at the center. — Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 17 Aug. 2026 Stained glass lamps in the Tiffany style fall under the same umbrella, though those tend to feature more ornate floral and Art Nouveau motifs inspired by Louis Comfort Tiffany’s original late-19th-century designs. — Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 17 Aug. 2026 The church’s nave is decorated in the incredibly intricate Manueline style – motifs that pay tribute to the sea trade that made Portugal rich. — Tribune Content Agency, Baltimore Sun, 12 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
  • Katy Rudd is set to direct with set and costume designs by Tony-winning Rob Howell (Matilda the Musical) and choreography from Ellen Kane.
    — Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 27 Aug. 2026
  • As a result, developers and builders are the ones who have to make sure their designs comply.
    — Noah Haggerty, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 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
  • The style features dazzling dainty straps intersecting across the toes and an ankle strap adorned with lemon and leaf ornaments.
    — Jaden Thompson, Footwear News, 25 Aug. 2026
  • The new tariff will also apply to a range of Canadian exports, including flags, bookbinding materials, some types of vacuum cleaners and Christmas ornaments.
    — Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 24 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 2 Sep. 2026.

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