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 solid silver case, decorated by renowned Flemish engraver Gérard de Heck, features scenes from Lucas Chapter X, the royal coat of arms of King James I, and the royal motto. — Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 3 Nov. 2026

The motto of the franchise is ‘In the grim darkness of the far future, there is nothing but war,’ which could tap into his darker sensibilities, but Flanagan wasn’t giving much away when Deadline probed for an update. — Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 2 Nov. 2026

This year your motto is ‘An Eye for It,’ to spotlight your unique cultural curation remit. — Annika Pham, Variety, 16 Oct. 2026

And now there are secrets that are imparted during the rituals, like the secret of what the meaning of the motto is, and that sort of thing. — Richard Hall, Time, 7 Oct. 2026

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