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View synonyms for

motto

[ mot-oh ]

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

/ ˈɒəʊ /

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
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Word History and Origins

Origin of motto1

1580–90; < Italian < Late Latin muttum sound, utterance. See mot
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Word History and Origins

Origin of motto1

C16: via Italian from Latin muttum utterance
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Compare Meanings

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

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

The group’s motto says it all: “As the cowboy wrangles cattle, we wrangle consciousness.”

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“Cheap ends up being expensive” is my mother’s motto.

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"If you win you have character, if you don't win you don't have character - this is the motto," said Guardiola.

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The Kenbassador also sports a pair of Nike high-tops, patterned pants, a gold watch and a black shirt that touts the James Family Foundation motto: “We Are Family.”

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That perseverance and energetic response to adversity suggest, as the GSG motto implies, that, given half a chance, there's no limit to what they might achieve.

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