Motif

Motif is a widget set for the X Window System. It's the official Unix98 widget set according to the Open Group. An open source reimplementation called Lesstif is also available.

While Motif is mature, and has many groovy features, it's neither easy to program for nor especially attractive in the eyes of many. This has led to lots and lots of other widget sets, including Gtk+, Qt and XForms.

Mo"tif (?), n. [F.]

Motive.

© Webster 1913

Mo`tif" (?), n. [F.]

1.

In literature and the fine arts, a salient feature or element of a composition or work; esp., the theme, or central or dominant feature; specif. (Music), a motive.

This motif, of old things lost, is a favorite one for the serious ballade.
R. M. Alden.

The design . . . is . . . based on the peacock -- a motif favored by decorative artists of all ages.
R. D. Benn.

2. (Dressmaking)

A decorative appliqué design or figure, as of lace or velvet, used in trimming.

© Webster 1913