Background for motif

motif

/moʊˈtiːf/

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noun

A recurring or dominant element; a theme.

Examples :

"See how the artist repeats the scroll motif throughout the work?"

art style literature music culture

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noun

A short melodic passage that is repeated in several parts of a work.

Examples :

"The composer used a simple four-note motif throughout the song, weaving it into different sections and variations. "

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noun

A decorative figure that is repeated in a design or pattern.

Examples :

"The wallpaper in the bathroom has a seashell motif, repeated across the entire wall. "

art style figure

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noun

A decorative appliqué design or figure, as of lace or velvet, used in trimming.

Examples :

"The seamstress used a delicate lace motif to trim the edges of the wedding dress. "

art appearance style material

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noun

The physical object or objects repeated at each point of a lattice. Usually atoms or molecules.

Examples :

"In the crystal structure of salt, the sodium chloride molecule acts as the repeating motif throughout the lattice. "

chemistry physics material structure

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noun

A basic element of a move in terms of why the piece moves and how it supports the fulfilment of a stipulation.

Examples :

"The recurring motif in Sarah's weekly schedule is the need to balance schoolwork with family time. "

game style action

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noun

In a nucleotide or amino-acid sequence, pattern that is widespread and has, or is conjectured to have, a biological significance.

Examples :

"Scientists discovered a repeating motif in the DNA sequence of a certain type of bacteria, suggesting it might be involved in cell growth. "

biology biochemistry science structure