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
Summer’s less is more motto rings especially true when a 90-degree afternoon is forecasted; a mini tank or spaghetti-strap midi will be a reliable choice to take the guesswork out of getting dressed.
—
Christina Holevas, Vogue, 5 June 2025
Marion, 37, has lived that motto, relaying on sports as a positive outlet growing up, having overcome bouts of homelessness as a college football player and throughout his cross-country tours as a fast-rising coach.
—Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 5 June 2025
Their motto translates to ‘territory, traditions, resilience.’ Sardinia’s northern terrain once generated bulk quantities of Malvasia and Moscato grapes that were sold to a large cooperative.
—Tom Mullen, Forbes.com, 1 June 2025
Not the government, whose motto ought to be: No boondoggle left unfunded.
—John Seiler, Oc Register, 31 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for motto
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Christina Holevas, Vogue, 5 June 2025
Marion, 37, has lived that motto, relaying on sports as a positive outlet growing up, having overcome bouts of homelessness as a college football player and throughout his cross-country tours as a fast-rising coach.
—Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 5 June 2025
Their motto translates to ‘territory, traditions, resilience.’ Sardinia’s northern terrain once generated bulk quantities of Malvasia and Moscato grapes that were sold to a large cooperative.
—Tom Mullen, Forbes.com, 1 June 2025
Not the government, whose motto ought to be: No boondoggle left unfunded.
—John Seiler, Oc Register, 31 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for motto
Cite this Entry
“Motto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/motto. Accessed 13 Jun. 2025.
Copy CitationKids 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
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