Watchword

//ˈwɒt͡ʃwɜː(ɹ)d// noun

Definitions

Noun
  1. 1
    A word used as a motto, as expressive of a principle, belief, or rule of action; a rallying cry.

    ""How this perpetual gaiety," exclaimed Louis, "jars upon the ear! Good Heaven! is farewell to be said so gladly? I sometimes start when I think upon the hollowness of all that surrounds me. I often wish my eye had the power of searching the inmost depths of the bosoms whose watchword is my name.""

  2. 2
    a secret word or phrase known only to a restricted group wordnet
  3. 3
    A prearranged reply to the challenge of a sentry or a guard; a password or signal by which friends can be known from enemies.

    "a Watchword sufficient for him that is wiſe"

  4. 4
    a slogan used to rally support for a cause wordnet

Etymology

From Middle English wacche word, wacchworde, morphologically as watch (“guard, sentinel, sentry”) + word.

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