Synonyms for watchword
Most common
Synonyms by meaning
Noun
1. Byword — A word used as a motto, as expressive of a principle, belief, or rule of action; a rallying cry
byword, motto, mantra, shibboleth, maxim, guide word, catchword, slogan, workword rare
2. War cry
3. Password — A prearranged reply to the challenge of a sentry or a guard; a password or signal by which friends can be…
4. Countersign
word, countersign, parole dated
Definitions
- n. 1
A word used as a motto, as expressive of a principle, belief, or rule of action; a rallying cry.
- n. 2
A prearranged reply to the challenge of a sentry or a guard; a password or signal by which friends can be known from enemies.
Forms
- Plural
- watchwords → bywords, mottos, mantras, shibboleths…
Example sentences
- motto "Liberty, equality, fraternity" is a French motto.
- mantra He loved to repeat a phrase, a kind of personal mantra.
- byword Timbuktu's name has become a byword of remoteness.
- cry The girl began to cry at the sight of the big dog.
Popularity over time
| Word | 1850 → 2019 | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| watchword | steady | |
| motto | rising | |
| mantra | rising | |
| byword | steady | |
| shibboleth | steady | |
| cry | rising |
Use in printed books, per decade from 1850 to 2019.
By length
- 3 letters
- cry1
- 4 letters
- word1
- 5 letters
- motto2, maxim2
- 6 letters
- parole2, slogan2, mantra2, byword2
- 8 letters
- password2, workword
- 9 letters
- catchword2, underword
- 10 letters
- passphrase, shibboleth3
- 11 letters
- countersign
The small number after each word is its number of syllables (motto2 = 2 syllables).