byword

noun

by·​word ˈbī-ˌwərd 

1

: a proverbial saying : proverb

2

a

: one that personifies a type

b

: one that is noteworthy or notorious

3

: epithet

4

: a frequently used word or phrase

Synonyms of byword

• proverb
• word
• saying
• motto
• maxim

Examples of byword in a Sentence

Mom's favorite byword is “You can get more flies with honey than with vinegar”.

nationally, Beverly Hills' Rodeo Drive has become a byword for luxury retailing

Recent Examples on the Web

Down’s father-in-law, Sir Nicholas Mostyn, had a high-profile legal career, and his last name became a byword for a favorable settlement in a divorce case. —Rebecca Mead, New Yorker, 8 Dec. 2025

Over the past 10 years, Schalke have become a byword for dysfunction. —Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 28 Oct. 2025

The jewelry designer, whose namesake label has become a byword for sinuous and sculptural creations with a modern, classy feel, has introduced a fine jewelry line crafted in 18-karat gold, diamonds and pearls. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 10 Oct. 2025

How did hocus pocus transform from the stage name of a magician (and it should be said, an accomplished juggler, according to Ady) to a byword for the entire craft? —Scott Neuman, NPR, 1 Oct. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for byword

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

Kids Definition

byword

noun

by·​word -ˌwərd 

: proverb