plural mottoes also mottos
1
: a sentence, phrase, or word inscribed on something as appropriate to or indicative of its character or use
"The Crossroads of America" is the motto of the state of Indiana.
2
: a short expression of a guiding principle
"Hope for the best and prepare for the worst" is my motto.
Examples of motto in a Sentence
“Hope for the best and prepare for the worst” is my motto.
The Boy Scout motto is “Be prepared.”
Recent Examples on the Web
Eradicate ransomware together is the motto of the Halcyon Threat Research Incentive Program, known as TRIP for short, which launched April 21.
—
Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 21 Apr. 2025
Here's everything to know about Mel Robbin's motto that has taken over the internet.
—Jordana Comiter, People.com, 17 Apr. 2025
Overall, the essence of using a motto to improve your fitness is understanding that your internal dialogue can be a powerful asset in changing your behavior.
—Melanie Radzicki McManus, CNN Money, 10 Apr. 2025
Still, their motto holds firm: Nothing but the Best.
—Javier Hasse, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for motto
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Davey Winder, Forbes.com, 21 Apr. 2025
Here's everything to know about Mel Robbin's motto that has taken over the internet.
—Jordana Comiter, People.com, 17 Apr. 2025
Overall, the essence of using a motto to improve your fitness is understanding that your internal dialogue can be a powerful asset in changing your behavior.
—Melanie Radzicki McManus, CNN Money, 10 Apr. 2025
Still, their motto holds firm: Nothing but the Best.
—Javier Hasse, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for motto
Cite this Entry
“Motto.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/motto. Accessed 30 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
motto
noun
mot·to
ˈmät-ō 
plural mottoes also mottos
1
: a sentence, phrase, or word inscribed on something (as a coin or public building) to suggest its use or nature
2
: a short expression of a guiding rule of conduct
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