mottos

A motto is a short phrase or sentence that expresses guiding beliefs, principles, or aims. It is adopted by individuals, organizations, families, schools, cities, and nations to communicate core values and to inspire action. Mottos function as a concise summary of identity and can serve as a unifying symbol or a reminder of shared goals.

The word motto comes from Italian, where motto or motto “utterance” refers to a short sentence inscribed to guide conduct. In English, the term has been used since the early modern period to describe pithy statements used in seals, coats of arms, and institutional emblems, as well as personal declarations.

Mottos vary in form and language. They are often concise statements, proverbs, or maxims, and may be written in Latin, the local language, or another tongue for ceremonial or traditional reasons. Types include personal mottos, organizational or corporate mottos, school mottos, national mottos, city mottos, and military mottos. Notable examples include the national motto of the United States, “In God We Trust”; the Latin phrases “E pluribus unum” (out of many, one) and “Carpe diem” (seize the day); and France’s motto “Liberté, égalité, fraternité.”

Historically, mottoes appear in ancient heraldry, medieval universities, and on seals or coins, later becoming integral to branding and institutional identity. They are sometimes translated to convey meaning to diverse audiences, while retaining the original language for formality. Critics note that mottoes can oversimplify complex values and may be misinterpreted if taken out of context or translated imprecisely.