1
as in words
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 slogans
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
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for watchwords
Noun
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Friends, former colleagues, and community members have dropped off care packages and shared words of encouragement.—
Abby Dodge,
CBS News,
27 Mar. 2026 -
Unkind words and thoughts from your harshest critic (yourself) are all too common, especially for women, and their effects can diminish mood, confidence and self-esteem while positive ones can have the opposite impact.—
Helen Carefoot,
Flow Space,
26 Mar. 2026
Noun
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Instead, a different Rubio emerged, one who appeared to see the world through the lens of America’s top diplomat, rather than a politician winning votes through anti-Castro slogans.—
Francesca Chambers,
USA Today,
24 Mar. 2026
-
Mamdani’s housing agenda, so far, is built on a foundation of headlines, slogans and fiscal fantasies.—
Ann Korchak,
New York Daily News,
23 Mar. 2026
Noun
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Yet the low points were problematic for a program that measures itself by marquee wins and banners.—
Aaron Beard,
Chicago Tribune,
25 Mar. 2026
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Right now, even with their tradition and their banners, the Bruins seem to be just one of many teams in the squishy middle – good enough to win a game or maybe two in the tournament, not really good enough to uphold that legacy by winning it all.—
Jim Alexander,
Oc Register,
23 Mar. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Watchwords.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/watchwords. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.
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