‖Mo′tif″ (?), n. 1. In literature and the fine arts, a salient feature or element of a composition or work; esp., the theme, or central or dominant feature; specif. (Music), a motive.
This motif, of old things lost, is a favorite one for the serious ballade. R. M. Alden.
The design... is... based on the peacock — a motif favored by decorative artists of all ages. R. D. Benn.
2. (Dressmaking) A decorative appliqué design or figure, as of lace or velvet, used in trimming.