Watchword definitions

wŏch'wûrd'
A prearranged reply to a challenge, as from a guard or sentry; a password.
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A rallying cry.

Let our watchword be freedom.

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A password, or countersign.
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A word or phrase embodying a principle or precept, esp. one used as the slogan or cry of a group or party.
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A prearranged reply to the challenge of a sentry or a guard; a password or signal by which friends can be known from enemies.
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A word used as a motto, as expressive of a principle or rule of action; a maxim, byword.
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Origin of watchword

From Middle English waccheword, morphologically as watch +"Ž word.

Sentence Examples

  • This doctrine became the watchword of the moderate Hussites who were known as the Utraquists or Calixtines (calix, the chalice), in Bohemian, podoboji; while the more advanced Hussites were soon known as the Taborites, from the city of Tabor that became their centre.

  • This principle became the watchword of the entire school of Saint-Simon.

  • Her name was a watchword for the progressive faction.

  • Their watchword was the constitution of 1861, which had been drawn up by their leaders; they demanded that it should be restored, and with it parliamentary government.

  • Agreement in the use of a common watchword had masked as it seems a real divergence of meaning and purpose.

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Words near watchword in the Dictionary