leitmotiv

• Ein wiederkehrendes musikalisches Motiv oder Thema, das mit einer bestimmten Person, Idee oder Situation verbunden ist, besonders in den Opern Richard Wagners. Allgemeiner auch ein immer wiederkehrender Leitgedanke oder eine kennzeichnende Grundidee.

A noun referring to a recurring melodic phrase or theme in a musical composition, especially one associated with a particular character, idea, or situation, as famously used in Wagner's operas.

1. Recurring musical themeC1formalart

   A short, recurring musical phrase associated with a particular person, idea, or situation, especially in the operas of Richard Wagner.

   Leitmotiv

   • The leitmotiv for the hero appears every time he enters the stage.
   • Wagner's Ring cycle is famous for its complex network of leitmotivs.
   • The composer used a dark, descending leitmotiv to signify impending doom.

   Synonymemotiftheme

2. Recurring theme in art or literatureC1formal

   A dominant or recurring theme or motif in a literary, artistic, or other creative work.

   Leitmotiv

   • The leitmotiv of betrayal runs throughout the novel.
   • In the film, the color red serves as a visual leitmotiv for danger.
   • The director used a leitmotiv of water to represent change and renewal.

   Synonymemotifrefrainthemetrope