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 of watchword

• 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

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

That last term, relatability, is the watchword of almost all Swiftology—understandably enough. —Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 4 Sep. 2025

Across Europe, strategic autonomy is the new watchword. —Ashley Lutz, Fortune, 9 Aug. 2025

Whatever the structure of your network, security is the watchword. —Al Kingsley Mbe, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for watchword

• absurd
• averred
• bluebird
• byword
• catbird
• catchword
• concurred
• conferred
• cowbird
• cowherd
• crossword
• deferred

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