motto

noun

mot·​to ˈmä-(ˌ)tō How to pronounce motto (audio)
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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Chargers What Jim Harbaugh saw on film to change coach’s opinion of Chargers’ loss to Cardinals Oct. 23, 2024 Other coaches could lose their players through meandering mottos. Thuc Nhi Nguyen, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2024 Staying true to that motto, the company has expanded into the men’s category after 10 years in business. Hikmat Mohammed, WWD, 22 Oct. 2024 True to its reputation, the traveling party lived up to its motto, filling the venue with a mesmerizing display of lights that shifted from sparkling starry night imitations to deep ocean blues, culminating in a vibrant rainbow light show. Isabela Raygoza, Billboard, 22 Oct. 2024 That’s the motto that has transcended the lineup this month; principles forged from past postseason failures helping the Dodgers reach the doorstep of the Fall Classic. Jack Harris, Los Angeles Times, 18 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for motto 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of motto was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near motto

Cite this Entry

“Motto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/motto. Accessed 12 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

motto

noun
mot·​to ˈmät-ō How to pronounce motto (audio)
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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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