leitmotiv

• Nom désignant une phrase musicale ou un thème récurrent dans une œuvre, en particulier associé à un personnage, une idée ou une situation, comme cela est célèbre dans les opéras de Wagner.

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.

   Leitmotive (musique)

   • 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.

   Synonymesmotiftheme

2. Recurring theme in art or literatureC1formal

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

   leitmotiv (thème récurrent)

   • 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.

   Synonymesmotifrefrainthemetrope