motley Definition
- 1incongruously varied in appearance or character; disparate
- 2a jester's costume, typically consisting of a bright, multicolored tunic with a pattern of bells
Using motley: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "motley" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The motley crew of travelers on the bus made for an interesting ride.
Example
The painting was a motley collection of colors and shapes.
Example
The court jester wore a motley outfit with bells on it.
Example
The team was a motley group of players from different backgrounds.
motley Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for motley
Antonyms for motley
Phrases with motley
Example
The king's motley fool entertained the court with his antics.
Example
The project attracted a motley crew of volunteers, each with their own unique skills and experiences.
a collection of things that are varied or dissimilar
Example
The garage sale had a motley assortment of items for sale, from antique furniture to old toys.
Origins of motley
from Middle English 'motteley', meaning 'composed of diverse elements'
Summary: motley in Brief
The term 'motley' [ˈmɒtli] describes a collection of things that are incongruously varied in appearance or character. It can refer to people, such as a 'motley crew' of individuals from different backgrounds, or to things, such as a 'motley assortment' of items for sale at a garage sale. 'Motley' can also be used as a noun to describe a jester's costume, typically consisting of a bright, multicolored tunic with a pattern of bells.
