motto

[ mot-oh ]
/ ˈmɒt oʊ /

noun, plural mot·toes, mot·tos.

a maxim adopted as an expression of the guiding principle of a person, organization, city, etc.
a sentence, phrase, or word expressing the spirit or purpose of a person, organization, city, etc., and often inscribed on a badge, banner, etc.

Origin of motto

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

Example sentences from the Web for motto

British Dictionary definitions for motto

motto
/ (ˈmɒtəʊ) /

noun plural -toes or -tos

a short saying expressing the guiding maxim or ideal of a family, organization, etc, esp when part of a coat of arms
a short explanatory phrase inscribed on or attached to something
a verse or maxim contained in a paper cracker
a quotation prefacing a book or chapter of a book
a recurring musical phrase

Word Origin for motto

C16: via Italian from Latin muttum utterance