leitmotiv

Noun

leit=mo=tiv

WORDNET DICTIONARY

leitmotiv(n = noun.communication) leitmotif - a melodic phrase that accompanies the reappearance of a person or situation (as in Wagner's operas); Array

is a kind of air, line, melodic line, melodic phrase, melody, strain, tune

leitmotiv, n. [G., leading motive.].

a guiding theme; in Wagnerian opera, a marked melodic phrase or short musical passage which always accompanies the reappearance of a certain person, situation, abstract idea, or allusion in the course of the play; a sort of musical label. Also called Leading motive. [1913 Webster]
a recurring theme in the activities of a person or group. [PJC]

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