watchword

noun

watch·​word ˈwäch-ˌwərd How to pronounce watchword (audio)
ˈwȯch-
1
: a word or phrase used as a sign of recognition among members of the same society, class, or group
2
a
: a word or motto that embodies a principle or guide to action of an individual or group : slogan
"safety" is our watchword
b
: a guiding principle
change is the watchword for both parties

Examples of watchword in a Sentence

The new watchword in his campaign is “It's time for change.” the watchword is changed every day
Recent Examples on the Web But the watchword is transparency and what users can reasonably be expected to know is taking place from information given. Zak Doffman, Forbes, 5 Oct. 2024 The two watchwords of your selection process should be rigorous and fast. Bruce Tulgan, Forbes, 27 Sep. 2024 The word quickly morphed into a theme for Harris and other Democrats, and has a chance to be a watchword of the undoubtably weird 2024 election. Steve Karnowski, Fortune, 6 Aug. 2024 Rehabilitation became the watchword of D.C.’s juvenile justice system. Armstrong Williams, Baltimore Sun, 3 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for watchword 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'watchword.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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

Dictionary Entries Near watchword

Cite this Entry

“Watchword.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/watchword. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

watchword

noun
watch·​word -ˌwərd How to pronounce watchword (audio)
1
: a secret word used as a signal or password
2
: a motto used as a slogan or cry for common support

More from Merriam-Webster on watchword

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