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
Anne’s motto is ‘just get on with it,’ while William always seems concerned with what an event says about the future of the crown.
—
Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 28 July 2025
But when Adora meets a handsome man named Digby while at the ballet, her life motto is put to the test.
—Carly Tagen-Dye, People.com, 25 July 2025
Under the motto is a list of scores throughout the Eagles' playoff run, which included games against the Packers, Los Angeles Rams, Washington Commanders, and the Chiefs.
—Justin Grasso, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 July 2025
This is your motto as the moon sprints through Aries.
—Usa Today, USA Today, 16 July 2025
See All Example Sentences for motto
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Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 28 July 2025
But when Adora meets a handsome man named Digby while at the ballet, her life motto is put to the test.
—Carly Tagen-Dye, People.com, 25 July 2025
Under the motto is a list of scores throughout the Eagles' playoff run, which included games against the Packers, Los Angeles Rams, Washington Commanders, and the Chiefs.
—Justin Grasso, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 July 2025
This is your motto as the moon sprints through Aries.
—Usa Today, USA Today, 16 July 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 5 Aug. 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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