motif

Etymology

From French motif (1848), with the meaning of "main idea or theme". Doublet of motive.

noun

1. A recurring or dominant element; an artistic theme.
   See how the artist repeats the scroll motif throughout the work?
2. (music) A short melodic or lyrical passage that is repeated in several parts of a work.
3. A decorative figure that is repeated in a design or pattern.
4. (dressmaking) A decorative appliqué design or figure, as of lace or velvet, used in trimming.
5. (crystallography) The physical object or objects repeated at each point of a lattice. Usually atoms or molecules.
6. (chess) A basic element of a move in terms of why the piece moves and how it supports the fulfilment of a stipulation.
7. (biochemistry) In a nucleotide or aminoacid sequence, pattern that is widespread and has, or is conjectured to have, a biological significance.