watchword
Americannoun
-
a word or short phrase to be communicated, on challenge, to a sentinel or guard; password or countersign.
- Synonyms:
- shibboleth
-
a word or phrase expressive of a principle or rule of action; slogan.
Conservation has been our watchword.
- Synonyms:
- shibboleth
-
a rallying cry of a party, club, team, etc.
- Synonyms:
- motto
noun
-
another word for password
-
a rallying cry or slogan
Etymology
Origin of watchword
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
In other words, affordability was the watchword before the high court’s decision, and it remains so.
From MarketWatch
“Uncertainty” was already a buzzword in 2025, but in 2026, it will become the dominant corporate watchword among American business leaders.
From Barron's
"The watchword now is re-engagement, with a dialogue that can take place discreetly, in a calm, peaceful, equal manner, but also with a view to results," said Romatet.
From Barron's
All I am saying is I've always said I'm cautious about this issue because fairness is my watchword.
From BBC
Now I’ve endeavored to be like an old dog who can learn new tricks, so humility has been the watchword for my second decade of marriage.
From Los Angeles Times
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
