motto

mot·to

noun \ˈmä-(ˌ)tō\

plural mottoes also mottos

Definition of MOTTO

1

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

2

: a short expression of a guiding principle

Examples of MOTTO

1. “Hope for the best and prepare for the worst” is my motto.
2. The Boy Scout motto is “Be prepared.”

Origin of MOTTO

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

First Known Use: 15th century

Rhymes with MOTTO

auto, Prato