* Noun: When referring to a recurring element in a story or piece of art, like a symbol, image, or theme.
* Example: "The recurring motif of the red rose represents love in the novel."
* Verb: When describing the act of decorating with a recurring pattern or design.
* Example: "The architect motifed the ceiling with intricate floral patterns."
* Adjective: Less common, but can be used to describe something related to or characteristic of a motif.
* Example: "The motific elements in the painting are beautifully interwoven."
So, without context, it's hard to say for sure what part of speech "motif" is. You need to consider the sentence it's used in to determine its function.