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

Our motto is always to try to do something that no one’s ever done before. —Chris Willman, Variety, 30 Dec. 2025

My motto as a reporter is assume nothing. —CBS News, 28 Dec. 2025

The slouchier, the better seems to be the sartorial motto these days, which makes learning how to style an oversized sweater well worth your while. —Kelsey Stewart, Glamour, 23 Dec. 2025

No pain, no gain may be the motto for piercings, but Cardi is a champ, especially since she's racked up quite a collection over the years. —Michelle Lee, PEOPLE, 8 Dec. 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