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Definition of motto

motto

/ˈmɑːtoʊ/
mot · to
Plural:mottoes
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motto Lexical Profile

motto Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A short sentence or phrase chosen as encapsulating the beliefs, ideals, or guiding principles of an individual, family, institution, or nation.

Example

"The school's motto encourages students to pursue knowledge with integrity and compassion."

2

A brief quotation or epigraph placed at the beginning of a book, chapter, or essay to suggest its theme.

Example

"The author selected a line from Virgil to serve as the motto for the opening chapter."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for motto

• Rhymes for motto

• Nearby Words

mottled
mottlet rock rattlesnake
mottling
motto
mouflon
mound
mount

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from Italian motto ('word' or 'saying'), which derives from Late Latin muttum ('a grunt' or 'murmur'), related to Latin muttire ('to mutter').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Motto. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/motto
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