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

The jacket also has the club motto Fino Alla Fine printed on it to demonstrate the club’s constant pursuit of excellence. —Vitas Carosella, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025

The secretary’s remarks echoed an earlier motto from Trump’s first administration, which pursued more moderate trade policies, and marked a departure in tone from just three weeks ago, when the president announced massive tariff increases on countries around the world. —Michael Wilner, Los Angeles Times, 23 Apr. 2025

Eradicate ransomware together is the motto of the Halcyon Threat Research Incentive Program, known as TRIP for short, which launched April 21. —Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 21 Apr. 2025

Here's everything to know about Mel Robbin's motto that has taken over the internet. —Jordana Comiter, People.com, 17 Apr. 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