| 释义 |
mot·to
\ˈmäd.(ˌ)ō, -ä(ˌ)tō\ noun
(plural mottoes also mottos)
Etymology: Italian, from Latin muttum grunt, mumble, from muttire to mutter, mumble — more at mute
1. : a sentence, phrase, or word accompanying a heraldic achievement
< two bends with the owner's word, reason, or motto — W.H.St.John Hope >
2.
a. : a sentence, phrase, or word inscribed on something as appropriate to or indicative of its character or use
< “Cry Aloud and Spare Not”, the belligerent motto of the paper — American Guide Series: Tennessee >
b. : a short suggestive expression of a guiding principle : maxim
< the Boy Scout motto “Be Prepared” >
c. : a short usually quoted passage prefixed to a literary work (as a novel, essay, or poem) or to one of its divisions (as a chapter or canto) and intended to suggest the subject matter that follows
d.
(1) or motto kiss : a piece of candy in a paper wrapper inscribed with or enclosing a saying or verse
(2) : a party novelty consisting of a fancy wrapper containing usually a paper printed with a sentimental or humorous verse, a paper hat, and a small toy or charm — compare cracker 2c, favor 4b
3. also motto theme : a recurring phrase or musical figure possibly varied and usually alluding to a specific idea |