motley

[ˈmɒtli]

motley Definition

• 1. incongruously varied in appearance or character; disparate
• 2. a 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

• diverse
• varied
• assorted
• mixed
• heterogeneous

Antonyms for motley

• homogeneous
• uniform
• consistent

Phrases with motley

• motley fool

  a court jester or clown

  Example

  The king's motley fool entertained the court with his antics.

• motley crew

  a group of people from different backgrounds or with different personalities

  Example

  The project attracted a motley crew of volunteers, each with their own unique skills and experiences.

• motley assortment

  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'

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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.