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

Eradicate ransomware together is the motto of the Halcyon Threat Research Incentive Program, known as TRIP for short, which launched April 21. —Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 21 Apr. 2025

Here's everything to know about Mel Robbin's motto that has taken over the internet. —Jordana Comiter, People.com, 17 Apr. 2025

Overall, the essence of using a motto to improve your fitness is understanding that your internal dialogue can be a powerful asset in changing your behavior. —Melanie Radzicki McManus, CNN Money, 10 Apr. 2025

Still, their motto holds firm: Nothing but the Best. —Javier Hasse, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025

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