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

No patriots so defaced America as those who, in the name of Americanism, launched a witch hunt that became a byword around the world. — Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026

For most of the past decade the giants of cloud computing were a byword for not needing anyone's money. — Dara-Abasi Ita, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

With her gutsy disposition and ice-blond braids, the Mother of Dragons became a byword for female empowerment, not to mention a costume party staple (both Madonna and Khloe Kardashian have donned the Daenerys getup). — K.j. Yossman, Variety, 29 May 2026

Marant launched her label and had her first show in 1994, quickly becoming a byword for a hip, womanly brand of boho chic. — Miles Socha, Footwear News, 26 May 2026

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