repeating motif
nounUK /rɪˈpiːtɪŋ məʊˈtiːf/
US /rɪˈpiːtɪŋ moʊˈtiːf/
A repeating motif is a shape, sound, or idea that keeps coming back again and again.
The artist used a repeating motif of small blue waves across the whole painting.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. In music, a short tune or rhythm that returns many times in a piece.
The composer built the whole song around a repeating motif in the strings.
3. In literature, an image or phrase that appears again and again to show an important idea.
The repeating motif of rain in the novel hints that sadness is always nearby.
4. In design, a small shape copied many times to decorate a surface.
The wallpaper's repeating motif of tiny leaves made the room feel calm.