1
as in word
a word or phrase that must be spoken by a person in order to pass a guard
the watchword is changed every day
Synonyms & Similar Words
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2
as in slogan
an attention-getting word or phrase used to publicize something (as a campaign or product)
their latest watchword turns up in every ad from that company
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of watchword
Caution seems to be the watchword for the Toronto Maple Leafs, who are holding down top spot in the Atlantic Division in his absence.
—
Carol Schram, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024
Maybe Volvo can move forward having both safety and premium design as watchwords for the marque without stepping on Polestar’s toes.
—Alex Goy, WIRED, 29 Nov. 2022
But the watchword is transparency and what users can reasonably be expected to know is taking place from information given.
—Zak Doffman, Forbes, 5 Oct. 2024
The two watchwords of your selection process should be rigorous and fast.
—Bruce Tulgan, Forbes, 27 Sep. 2024
See All Example Sentences for watchword
Carol Schram, Forbes, 22 Nov. 2024
Maybe Volvo can move forward having both safety and premium design as watchwords for the marque without stepping on Polestar’s toes.
—Alex Goy, WIRED, 29 Nov. 2022
But the watchword is transparency and what users can reasonably be expected to know is taking place from information given.
—Zak Doffman, Forbes, 5 Oct. 2024
The two watchwords of your selection process should be rigorous and fast.
—Bruce Tulgan, Forbes, 27 Sep. 2024
See All Example Sentences for watchword
Recent Examples of Synonyms for watchword
Noun
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The word has carried both literal and metaphorical meanings (like inspiration or a small beginning of something) since early usage.—
Erik Kain,
Forbes,
19 Mar. 2025
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The victim was getting off an uptown No. 1 train at the Broadway-W. 231st St. station when a man shoved her from behind without saying a word, cops said.—
Rocco Parascandola,
New York Daily News,
18 Mar. 2025
Noun
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The Justice Department describes a gang as an association of three or more members who have adopted a group identity used to create an atmosphere of fear or intimidation through a common name, slogan or identifying sign such as a tattoo.—
Eduardo Cuevas,
USA TODAY,
21 Mar. 2025
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To many in the LGBTQ community, the attire and the slogan are symbols of bigotry and intolerance at a time when gay, lesbian and transgender rights are under growing attack.—
Darrell Smith,
Sacramento Bee,
20 Mar. 2025
Noun
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With no streamer or network picking it up, the film found a home with Tom Ortenberg’s theatrical banner Briarcliff Entertainment.—
Steven Zeitchik,
The Hollywood Reporter,
19 Mar. 2025
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People gathered later Wednesday near Istanbul’s police headquarters, carrying posters of the mayor and banners with his photo around their shoulders.—
Mehmet Guzel and Suzan Fraser,
Los Angeles Times,
19 Mar. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Watchword.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/watchword. Accessed 25 Mar. 2025.
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