watchword

noun

watch·​word ˈwäch-ˌwərd 

ˈwȯch-

1

: a word or phrase used as a sign of recognition among members of the same society, class, or group

2

a

: a word or motto that embodies a principle or guide to action of an individual or group : slogan

"safety" is our watchword

b

: a guiding principle

change is the watchword for both parties

Synonyms

• countersign
• password
• word

Examples of watchword in a Sentence

The new watchword in his campaign is “It's time for change.”

the watchword is changed every day

Recent Examples on the Web

Traceability is the watchword of the coming decade for fashion and the textile sector. —Fairchild Studio, WWD, 24 June 2024

At a time when India was becoming a watchword for democratic backsliding, the election will begin to repair the damage that has been done under Modi to the country’s global reputation. —Pratap Bhanu Mehta, Foreign Affairs, 14 June 2024

The story was especially controversial at a time when unity was a national watchword. —Tom Stanton, Detroit Free Press, 12 Feb. 2024

Austerity, that watchword of decades past, is finished. —Felicia Wong, Foreign Affairs, 19 Oct. 2021

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

watchword

noun

watch·​word -ˌwərd 

1

: a secret word used as a signal or password

2

: a motto used as a slogan or cry for common support