motto etymology

Etymology

• Latin "muttum", meaning "a whisper" or "a word"
• Related to the French "mot", meaning "word" or "motto"

Meaning

A motto is a short, striking phrase that expresses a principle, goal, or belief. It is typically used to convey a message or to inspire or encourage others.

Origin

The use of mottos dates back to ancient times. In medieval Europe, knights and other military leaders often used mottos as a way to identify themselves and to declare their values and intentions on the battlefield. Mottos were also used by noble families to represent their lineage and heritage.

Today, mottos are used by a wide range of individuals and organizations, including businesses, schools, sports teams, and political parties. Mottos can be used to communicate a variety of messages, such as:

• The mission or purpose of an organization
• The values or beliefs of a group or individual
• A call to action or inspiration
• A reminder of a particular goal or accomplishment

Some examples of famous mottos include:

• "The pen is mightier than the sword" - Edward Bulwer-Lytton
• "Carpe diem" - Horace
• "In God we trust" - United States
• "Just do it" - Nike
• "Think different" - Apple

motto relate terms

• mutter

  Etymology Middle English moder from Old English mōdor from Proto West Germanic m

• motto

  Etymology Latin muttum meaning a whisper or a word Related to the French mot m

• mutter

  Etymology Middle English moder from Old English mōdor from Proto West Germanic m

• slogan

  Etymology The word slogan originated from the Scottish Gaelic phrase sluagh ghairm w

• shibboleth

• epigraph

  Etymology Derived from the Greek word epigraphē meaning inscription or superinsc

• excelsior

  Etymology The word excelsior comes from Latin specifically from the phrase excelsus

• catch phrase

  Etymology and Meaning Catchphrase A memorable or snappy phrase that is used to express

• mantra

  Etymology Sanskrit mantr man to think tr tool protection Meaning A s