—adj. (motlier, motliest)
1 diversified in colour.
2 of varied character (a motley crew).
—n.
1 an incongruous mixture.
2 hist. the particoloured costume of a jester.
Phrases and idioms:
wear motley play the fool.
Etymology: ME mottelay, perh. ult. rel. to MOTE
Useful english dictionary. 2012.