motif

A recurring or dominant element; a theme.

A short melodic passage that is repeated in several parts of a work.

A decorative figure that is repeated in a design or pattern.

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

The physical object or objects repeated at each point of a lattice. Usually atoms or molecules.

A basic element of a move in terms of why the piece moves and how it supports the fulfilment of a stipulation.

In a nucleotide or amino-acid sequence, pattern that is widespread and has, or is conjectured to have, a biological significance.