motto

American  

[mot-oh] / ˈmɒt oʊ /

noun

plural

mottoes, mottos

1. a maxim adopted as an expression of the guiding principle of a person, organization, city, etc.

2. a sentence, phrase, or word expressing the spirit or purpose of a person, organization, city, etc., and often inscribed on a badge, banner, etc.

---

motto British  

/ ˈmɒtəʊ /

noun

1. a short saying expressing the guiding maxim or ideal of a family, organization, etc, esp when part of a coat of arms

2. a short explanatory phrase inscribed on or attached to something

3. a verse or maxim contained in a paper cracker

4. a quotation prefacing a book or chapter of a book

5. a recurring musical phrase

---

Etymology

Origin of motto

1580–90; < Italian < Late Latin muttum sound, utterance. See mot

Compare meaning

How does motto compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• motto vs. slogan

Example Sentences

“We live out of the motto of community over commodity. We want our community to thrive, and the only way that the community can thrive is if we all come up, right?”

From Los Angeles Times

Well sure, but that’s a good motto when it comes to investing in general.

From The Wall Street Journal

The 76ers management countered with “We Owe You One”—a motto that clung to the team like body odor for the next five seasons.

From The Wall Street Journal

Since they’d been on the road, his father had taken the Boy Scouts’ motto, “Be Prepared,” to a new level.

From Literature

“I should have brought my compass. Always be prepared! Boy Scout motto.”

From Literature

Related Words

• adage
• aphorism
• maxim
• rallying cry