Synonyms of byword

byword

noun

ˈbī-ˌwərd 

1

as in proverb

an often stated observation regarding something from common experience

Mom's favorite byword is "You can get more flies with honey than with vinegar"

Synonyms & Similar Words

• proverb
• word
• saying
• motto
• maxim
• adage
• aphorism
• epigram
• saw
• commonplace
• apothegm
• cliché
• expression
• bromide
• truth
• truism
• axiom
• sententia
• platitude
• remark
• formula
• felicity
• precept
• wheeze
• reflection
• comment
• note

2

as in classic

the most perfect type or example

nationally, Beverly Hills' Rodeo Drive has become a byword for luxury retailing

Synonyms & Similar Words

• classic
• manifestation
• model
• apotheosis
• ideal
• perfection
• acme
• incarnation
• epitome
• quintessence
• zenith
• exemplar
• beau ideal
• prototype
• paradigm
• height
• standard
• avatar
• benchmark
• paragon
• personification
• archetype
• incorporation
• touchstone
• criterion
• ultimate
• nonpareil
• yardstick
• embodiment
• last word
• abstract
• meridian
• embodier

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of byword

No patriots so defaced America as those who, in the name of Americanism, launched a witch hunt that became a byword around the world. — Ann Manov, Harpers Magazine, 23 June 2026

For most of the past decade the giants of cloud computing were a byword for not needing anyone's money. — Dara-Abasi Ita, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

With her gutsy disposition and ice-blond braids, the Mother of Dragons became a byword for female empowerment, not to mention a costume party staple (both Madonna and Khloe Kardashian have donned the Daenerys getup). — K.j. Yossman, Variety, 29 May 2026

Marant launched her label and had her first show in 1994, quickly becoming a byword for a hip, womanly brand of boho chic. — Miles Socha, Footwear News, 26 May 2026