motto

noun

mot·​to ˈmä-(ˌ)tō How to pronounce motto (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Consistency over intensity is the Pvolve motto. Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2025 Overall, the kids bought into that motto of unfinished business. Dan Albano, Oc Register, 14 Oct. 2025 That has always been my motto — that Panama is going to shine. Ingrid Fajardo, Billboard, 13 Oct. 2025 Another theme Le Goy touched on during the panel, which is fast emerging as a motto of this year’s market, is aggregation as opposed to cannibalization. K.j. Yossman, Variety, 13 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for motto

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of motto was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Motto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/motto. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

motto

noun
mot·​to ˈmät-ō How to pronounce motto (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on motto

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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