Motto

Pronunciation: /ˈmɑːtoʊ/

Definitions of motto

noun a short sentence or phrase chosen as encapsulating the beliefs or ideals guiding an individual, family, or institution

Example Sentences

A1 My motto is to always be kind to others.

A2 The company's motto is 'Quality over quantity'.

B1 His personal motto is 'Work hard, play hard'.

B2 The school's motto is 'Strive for excellence in all things'.

C1 Living by the motto 'Carpe Diem' has helped him seize every opportunity.

C2 The organization's motto 'Unity in diversity' promotes inclusivity and tolerance.

Examples of motto in a Sentence

formal The company's motto is 'Excellence through Innovation'.

informal My motto is 'Work hard, play hard'.

slang Her motto is 'YOLO' - you only live once.

figurative His motto of 'never give up' kept him going during tough times.

Grammatical Forms of motto

• past tense: mottoed
• plural: mottos
• comparative: more motto
• superlative: most motto
• present tense: mottos
• future tense: will motto
• perfect tense: have mottoed
• continuous tense: am mottoing
• singular: motto
• positive degree: motto
• infinitive: to motto
• gerund: mottoing
• participle: mottoed

Origin and Evolution of motto

First Known Use: 1475 year

Language of Origin: Italian

Story behind the word: The word 'motto' originated from the Italian word 'motto' meaning 'word' or 'saying'. It was commonly used in heraldry to describe a phrase or expression associated with a family or organization.

Evolution of the word: Over time, the use of 'motto' expanded beyond heraldry to represent a guiding principle or belief that an individual or group identifies with. It is now commonly used as a slogan or phrase that encapsulates the values or goals of an entity.