Definition of watchwordnext
1
as in word
a word or phrase that must be spoken by a person in order to pass a guard the watchword is changed every day

Synonyms & Similar Words

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2
as in slogan
an attention-getting word or phrase used to publicize something (as a campaign or product) their latest watchword turns up in every ad from that company

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of watchword Uncertainty is the watchword, especially with a major Supreme Court ruling on tariffs on the horizon. Brian Blank, The Conversation, 29 Dec. 2025 There is a feeling that the American public has about their own finances, about their own wallet, about the idea of affordability, which, of course, has become the watchword. ABC News, 21 Dec. 2025 Affordability has become the new watchword in American politics and an emerging House energy bill marks a sharp shift away from the clean energy thrust of recent state laws and elevates pocketbook issues that are also on the minds of ratepayers and businesses. State House News Service, Boston Herald, 11 Nov. 2025 Across Europe, strategic autonomy is the new watchword. Ashley Lutz, Fortune, 9 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for watchword
Recent Examples of Synonyms for watchword
Noun
  • At a minimum, his play in leading the Spurs to a 60-win season — and his words in defense of his unparalleled impact — have made a great case.
    Joe Vardon, New York Times, 12 Apr. 2026
  • The fact that Grace and Rocky start their word list with numbers makes sense, says Arik Kershenbaum, an associate professor at the University of Cambridge who has studied wolf calls.
    Tara Haelle, NPR, 12 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • His name also drew some of the loudest applause throughout the convention, and merchandise bearing his likeness and slogans was prominently displayed across the venue.
    Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 12 Apr. 2026
  • Featuring the show’s slogan over a sunny pop of color, this sturdy ceramic mug holds a generous 15 ounces of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa, and is your Immunity Idol against a dull routine.
    Brittany Anas, Entertainment Weekly, 11 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Under the terms of the agreement, Ryan will develop and produce series for a variety of platforms and create original IP for USG to adapt for television under her Scribe Chick Media banner.
    Angelique Jackson, Variety, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Many influencers position themselves against traditional media, which offers information and entertainment under a faceless corporate banner, and instead encourage fans to develop deep parasocial bonds.
    Taylor Lorenz, Vanity Fair, 15 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Watchword.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/watchword. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.

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