word
Leitmotif
LYTE-moh-teef
/ˈlaɪtmoʊtiːf/Listen
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Syllable breakdown
LYTEmohteef
Dictionary meaning
A short, recurring musical theme or melodic fragment in an opera, film, or extended composition that is associated with a particular character, place, idea, or emotion, signaling its return to the audience each time it appears.
Examples
- The villain's leitmotif played on low brass each time he appeared on screen.
- Wagner systematically developed leitmotifs throughout his Ring Cycle operas.
Synonyms: leading motif, signature theme, musical motif
Pronunciation tips
From German: Leit (leading) + Motiv (motif). Also spelled leitmotiv.
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