Leitmotif - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A leitmotif is a recurring musical theme associated with a particular character, idea, or emotion in a composition, often used in operas or film scores to reinforce storytelling.
Definition:
A recurring theme or idea in a musical or literary work, representing a person, emotion, or concept.
Synonyms:
theme, motif, refrain, signature
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
randomness, inconsistency
Common Collocations:
musical leitmotif, Wagnerian leitmotif, character's leitmotif
Derivatives:
leitmotivic, leitmotifs
Usage Tips:
Use "leitmotif" to describe a repeated musical or narrative element tied to a specific character or idea.
Common Phrases:
Wagner's leitmotif technique, recurring leitmotif in film scores
Etymology:
From German "Leitmotiv," combining "leit-" (leading) and "Motiv" (motive or theme).
Examples:
- 1. The composer used a haunting leitmotif for the villain.
- 2. Her love theme serves as the story's emotional leitmotif.
- 3. The film's score features a heroic leitmotif for the protagonist.
- 4. Wagner pioneered the use of leitmotifs in operatic music.