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
Words nearby motto
motte,
mottelson,
mottle,
mottled,
mottled enamel,
motto,
mottramite,
motty,
motu,
motu proprio,
motzer
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