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

So just take care of your own business is the motto. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 9 Mar. 2026

Schumaker is heavily involved with the Jennie Rees Foundation and wears a bracelet featuring the NEGU (Never Ever Give Up) acronym that is the organization’s motto. —Evan Grant, Dallas Morning News, 8 Mar. 2026

That became the trip's unofficial motto. —Lisa A. Beach, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2026

At these Olympics, broadcast drones have given new life to the decades-old Olympic motto — faster, higher, stronger — translating it for the technological age. —Rick Maese, Washington Post, 9 Feb. 2026

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