catchphrase

noun

catch·​phrase ˈkach-ˌfrāz How to pronounce catchphrase (audio)
ˈkech-
1
: a word or expression that is used repeatedly and conveniently to represent or characterize a person, group, idea, or point of view
2

Examples of catchphrase in a Sentence

popular catchphrases like “politically correct” one of those advertising catchphrases that, if you think about them, don't mean much of anything
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Hogan began with his usual catchphrase, brother, and was booed. Houston Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 7 Jan. 2025 What does the catchphrase of AI alignment refer to? Lance Eliot, Forbes, 27 Dec. 2024 Used all of the trendy catchphrases & buzz words for his podcasts. Jay Stahl, USA TODAY, 27 Dec. 2024 But this season, he’s taken on a new catchphrase for when a joke prompts pearl-clutching. Vulture Staff, Vulture, 26 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for catchphrase 

Word History

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of catchphrase was in 1834

Dictionary Entries Near catchphrase

Cite this Entry

“Catchphrase.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/catchphrase. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on catchphrase

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!