a recurring element forming a theme in a work of art, music, or literature
a recurring element forming a theme in a work of art or literature, esp a dominant idea or central theme
in music, a short, but prominent, sequence of notes, often one that undergoes development when repeated during the piece
a repeated design or colour
a single decoration, such as a logo, e.g. on an item of clothing
a leitmotiv
[French motif motive, motif]