Motif
/moʊˈtiːf/noun
A recurring element or theme in a work of art or literature.
Did you know?In medieval art, motifs were often imbued with symbolic meanings, believed to convey hidden truths about life and spirituality.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
motīvus
“Causing motion or movement.”
Old French
Old French
motif
“A theme or design that inspires or leads to the creation of art.”
18th Century
French
motif
“A recurring element or theme, particularly in music and literature.”
Modern English
English
motif
“A distinct narrative element or artistic theme, particularly in literature and visual arts.”