adj. & n.
--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