watchword

noun

watch·​word ˈwäch-ˌwərd 

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

Synonyms

• word

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

As Le notes, that speed is a watchword for China’s entire EV ecosystem. —IEEE Spectrum, 6 June 2025

This was the watchword for Hollywood last year, repeated like a mantra at all levels of the industry, from studio execs to below-the-line crew members. —Judy Berman, Time, 3 June 2025

Despite four wins in Madrid, frustration appears to be a watchword for Świątek right now. —Charlie Eccleshare, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2025

Community engagement has become a watchword among city planners and architects, a necessary prelude to the construction of public projects. —Justin Davidson, Curbed, 5 May 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for watchword

• absurd
• averred
• bluebird
• byword
• catbird
• catchword
• concurred
• conferred
• cowbird
• cowherd
• crossword
• deferred

Kids Definition

watchword

noun

watch·​word -ˌwərd 

1

: a secret word used as a signal or password

2

: a motto used as a slogan or cry for common support