motif

A recurring element — a theme, image, symbol, or pattern — that has symbolic significance in a work of art, literature, music, or design. Broader and less specific than a leitmotif.

• (French loanword)

• recurring motif
• visual motif
• literary motif
• motif in design
• central motif
• floral motif

1. 1.The green light across the bay is a central motif in "The Great Gatsby" — representing Gatsby's unattainable dream, appearing at key moments to reinforce the theme of longing. (literary symbol)
2. 2.William Morris's wallpaper designs use repeated natural motifs — birds, flowers, vines — creating patterns that are simultaneously decorative and philosophically grounded in his Arts and Crafts ideals. (design pattern)

• theme/θiːm/— a central idea — broader
• pattern/ˈpætərn/— a repeated design
• symbol/ˈsɪmbəl/— something representing something else

from French "motif" (motive, pattern) — from Latin "motivum" (something that moves) — the element that moves through a work