motto

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/ˈmɑːtoʊ/
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A short expression that carries a guiding idea, identifies an emblem or text, or returns as a musical phrase with symbolic force.
Practice using motto in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • His personal motto is 'Keep moving.'
  • The medal carries the motto 'For courage.'
  • The family's motto is written on a scroll in the coat of arms.
  • Critics traced the whole finale back to its opening motto.
  • A grim motto sets the tone for the tale.

Similar words

epigraph
maxim
caption
caption
saying
leitmotif
slogan
precept
watchword
idea

Meanings

Guiding phrase

noun
everyday
neutral
A short word, phrase, or sentence that expresses a guiding belief, purpose, or rule of conduct.

Examples

  • The school motto is 'Learn and serve.'
  • His personal motto is 'Keep moving.'
  • The club chose a new motto for the season.
  • 'Be prepared' is a famous motto.
  • The campaign turned 'hope over fear' into its motto.

Similar words

maxim
saying
slogan
watchword
creed
principle
precept
mantra

Inscribed identifying phrase

noun
heraldry
neutral
A short phrase written on a badge, seal, coin, emblem, or coat of arms to express its character or ideal.

Examples

  • The national motto appears on the seal.
  • A Latin motto was carved beneath the shield.
  • The family's motto is written on a scroll in the coat of arms.
  • The medal carries the motto 'For courage.'
  • The city adopted a new motto for its official badge.

Similar words

device
inscription
legend
slogan
watchword
maxim
caption
text

Prefacing quotation

noun
literature
formal
A brief quotation, verse, or maxim placed before a book, chapter, essay, or similar work to suggest its theme.

Examples

  • Each chapter begins with a motto from an old poem.
  • The essay's motto hints at its argument.
  • She chose a biblical line as the novel's motto.
  • The translator kept the French motto above the first chapter.
  • A grim motto sets the tone for the tale.

Similar words

epigraph
quotation
maxim
verse
inscription
preface
heading
caption

Recurring musical phrase

noun
music
technical
A short musical phrase that returns through a work and helps identify a character, idea, mood, or structure.

Examples

  • The symphony opens with a four-note motto.
  • A brass motto returns at the end of the movement.
  • The composer gives the hero a restless motto.
  • The flute motto signals departure each time it appears.
  • Critics traced the whole finale back to its opening motto.

Similar words

motif
theme
phrase
leitmotif
figure
cell
subject
idea

Etymology

Borrowed from Italian motto, meaning word or saying, from Late Latin muttum, meaning a mutter, grunt, or utterance.

FAQ

What does motto mean?

A motto is a short expression that states a guiding belief, purpose, or ideal.

What is the plural of motto?

Both mottos and mottoes are accepted plurals.

How is a motto different from a slogan?

A motto usually expresses a lasting principle, while a slogan is often made for promotion or a campaign.

Can motto be used in heraldry?

Yes. In heraldry, a motto is a phrase or word connected with a coat of arms or similar emblem.

Can motto be used in music?

Yes. A musical motto is a short recurring phrase that helps identify an idea, mood, or structure.

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