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

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.
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
Recent Examples of Synonyms for watchword
Noun
  • Unfortunately, the question of how much worth is placed on an Israeli life versus a Palestinian one is answered mostly in words, and thus, in too direct (and perhaps too didactic) a fashion, when so much of the movie’s drama could have grounded it emotionally.
    Siddhant Adlakha, Variety, 11 Apr. 2025
  • So Far The word takes on a whole other meaning, however, once Violet enters the swank joint.
    David Fear, Rolling Stone, 10 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Outside the little green brick building hangs the sign with the restaurant's slogan: Automatic For The People.
    Melanie Peeples, NPR, 3 Apr. 2025
  • The slogan has become embedded in the Royals’ ethos (and has even made its way onto T-shirts).
    Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 3 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • 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
  • 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

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Cite this Entry

“Watchword.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/watchword. Accessed 15 Apr. 2025.

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