war cry

American  

noun

1. a cry, word, phrase, etc., shouted in charging or in rallying to attack; battle cry.

2. a slogan, phrase, or motto used to unite a political party, rally support for a cause, etc.

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war cry British  

noun

1. a rallying cry used by combatants in battle

2. a cry, slogan, etc, used to rally support for a cause

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Etymology

Origin of war cry

First recorded in 1740–50

Example Sentences

"Their war cry is 'let's live life, let's live it healthily, let's live well,' and obviously this fascinates me."

From Barron's • May 5, 2026

“Warfare” wants to live in the dictionary shoehorned between war cry and war hawk.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 10, 2025

His war cry of “Let’s go!” in Spanish draws motivation for Alcaraz when he faces difficulty, and revs up his fans.

From Washington Times • Apr. 28, 2023

One arresting voice comes through like a war cry, all ancient, melismatic syllables in unsettled rhythms.

From New York Times • Oct. 22, 2021

Like thunder, like an avalanche, like the war cry of the seraphim who had come on wings of fire and cleansed the world of demons.

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor