LEITMOTIF: 1: a melodic phrase or figure that accompanies the reappearance of an idea, person, or situation in a music drama 2: a dominant recurring theme
The English word "leitmotif" (or "leitmotiv," as it is also spelled) comes from the Greek Leitmotiv meaning "leading motive" and from leiten ("to lead") and Motiv ("motive"). In its original sense, the word applies to opera music and was first used by writers interpreting the works of composer Richard Wagner, who was famous for associating melodies with certain characters or important dramatic elements. "Leitmotif" is still commonly used with reference to music and musical drama, but is now also used more broadly to refer to any recurring theme in the arts or in everyday life.
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