motto

noun

mot·​to ˈmä-(ˌ)tō 

plural mottoes also mottos

1

: a sentence, phrase, or word inscribed on something as appropriate to or indicative of its character or use

"The Crossroads of America" is the motto of the state of Indiana.

2

: a short expression of a guiding principle

"Hope for the best and prepare for the worst" is my motto.

Examples of motto in a Sentence

“Hope for the best and prepare for the worst” is my motto.

The Boy Scout motto is “Be prepared.”

Recent Examples on the Web

But, that’s sort of the motto behind the Episcopal Church. —Lauren Costantino, Miami Herald, 10 Sep. 2025

Over time, it's only woven itself deeper into the fabric of American cultural consciousness, spawning new memes, mottos, and social media trends each year. —Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 9 Sep. 2025

My motto is no fear, and resilience. —Noah Perkins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Sep. 2025

Efforts to change the Massachusetts flag, seal and motto gained momentum in 2020; however, activists have rallied to change the Massachusetts flag for decades. —Isabelle Friedman, Boston Herald, 8 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Italian, from Late Latin muttum grunt, from Latin muttire to mutter

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for motto

• auto
• dato
• erato
• vibrato
• yamato
• moderato
• pizzicato

Kids Definition

motto

noun

mot·​to ˈmät-ō 

plural mottoes also mottos

1

: a sentence, phrase, or word inscribed on something (as a coin or public building) to suggest its use or nature

2

: a short expression of a guiding rule of conduct