motto
|mot-to|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈmɑːtoʊ/
🇬🇧
/ˈmɒtəʊ/
guiding principle
Etymology
Etymology Information
'motto' originates from Italian, specifically the word 'motto,' where 'motto' meant 'word' or 'saying.'
Historical Evolution
'motto' changed from the Italian word 'motto' and eventually became the modern English word 'motto.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'word' or 'saying,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a guiding principle or phrase.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a short sentence or phrase that encapsulates the beliefs or ideals guiding an individual, family, or institution.
The school's motto is 'Knowledge is power.'
Synonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35