Motto: meaning, definitions and examples
๐
motto
[หmษtษส ]
Definitions
personal philosophy
A motto is a short phrase or sentence that expresses someone's beliefs, ideals, or guiding principles.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
motto |
A motto is a short, memorable phrase or sentence that sums up the beliefs or ideals of an individual, organization, or institution. It's often used as a guide for behavior or a slogan.
|
saying |
A saying is a short, commonly known expression that conveys advice or wisdom, often originating from traditional folklore or popular culture. It can be used in various situations to encapsulate a piece of practical knowledge.
|
maxim |
A maxim is a concise statement that expresses a general truth, fundamental principle, or rule of conduct. It is often handed down historically or considered a piece of universal wisdom.
|
credo |
A credo is a set of firm beliefs or principles that guide someone's actions. It generally refers to personal or organizational philosophy on a more profound, sometimes spiritual, level.
|
Examples of usage
- My motto is 'Carpe Diem' - seize the day.
- The company's motto is 'Quality over quantity.'
heraldry
In heraldry, a motto is a phrase or sentence placed beneath a coat of arms, typically expressing a noble family's aspirations or values.
Synonyms
family motto, heraldic motto.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
motto |
Used to describe a short phrase or sentence that expresses a guiding principle or belief of an individual or group.
|
heraldic motto |
Typically refers to a motto associated with a coat of arms or a family crest, often reflecting the heritage and values of a noble family.
|
family motto |
Specifically refers to a phrase or sentence that conveys the values or guiding principles of a particular family, often passed down through generations.
|
Examples of usage
- Their family motto is 'Semper Fidelis' - always faithful.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'motto' comes from the Italian word 'motto,' meaning 'word' or 'saying.'
- It was first used in English in the late 16th century, showing how ideas and expressions can travel across languages.
- The term was often associated with heraldry, where a family's motto would accompany their coat of arms to convey their values.
Pop Culture
- Many famous brands have mottos that resonate with their mission, like Nikeโs 'Just Do It,' encouraging action.
- Movies and books often feature characters with memorable mottos that define their journeys, such as Gandalf's 'A wizard is never late.'
- In the realm of sports, teams often adopt mottos that inspire fans and players alike, creating a sense of unity and purpose.
Psychology
- Having a personal motto can boost motivation and improve decision-making, acting as a mental anchor during tough times.
- Psychological studies suggest that mantras or mottos can enhance focus and reduce stress, similar to positive affirmations.
- The repetition of a motto can condition the mind to internalize values and direction, shaping behavior and attitude over time.
Education
- Mottos are often used in educational settings, with schools adopting them to reflect their philosophies and inspire students.
- Students may create personal mottos to guide their academic goals, fostering a positive mindset towards learning.
- Mottos can be powerful tools in classroom management, helping educators instill core values like respect and perseverance.
History
- Throughout history, various political movements have adopted mottos that encapsulate their mission and vision, such as the French Revolution's 'Libertรฉ, รฉgalitรฉ, fraternitรฉ.'
- In ancient Rome, mottos were often inscribed on public buildings to convey civic virtues and laws to the populace.
- The use of mottos in military units serves to instill a sense of pride and purpose among soldiers, fostering camaraderie.
Translations
๐ต๐น lema
๐ฎ๐ณ เคธเฅเคเฅเคคเคฟ
๐ฉ๐ช Motto
๐ฎ๐ฉ motto
๐บ๐ฆ ะดะตะฒัะท
๐ต๐ฑ motto
๐ฏ๐ต ใขใใใผ
๐ซ๐ท devise
๐ช๐ธ lema
๐น๐ท motto
- slogan
- รถzdeyiล
๐ฐ๐ท ๋ชจํ
๐ธ๐ฆ ุดุนุงุฑ
๐จ๐ฟ motto
๐ธ๐ฐ motto
๐จ๐ณ ๅบงๅณ้ญ
๐ธ๐ฎ moto
๐ฎ๐ธ mottรณ
๐ฐ๐ฟ าฑัะฐะฝ
๐ฌ๐ช แแแขแ
๐ฆ๐ฟ ลรผar
๐ฒ๐ฝ lema
Word Frequency Rank
Ranked #10,551, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.
- ...
- 10548 rigidly
- 10549 foreground
- 10550 compensatory
- 10551 motto
- 10552 epilepsy
- 10553 approbation
- 10554 enclose
- ...