Definition of motto

The word "motto" originated in the Middle Ages, around the 12th century in Scotland. It comes from the French word "mouton," which means lamb. The reason behind this word's origin is a bit obscure, but it's believed that it could have come from the practice of noble families adopting a lamb to represent their family crest or coat of arms. Lambs were seen as a symbol of innocence and purity, and the motto associated with the lamb would serve as a guiding principle or statement of values for the family. Over time, the meaning of motto evolved, and by the 15th century, it has come to mean a short phrase or statement that represents a person or organization's beliefs, values, or goals. It's believed that the use of mottos began to spread throughout Europe during this time, and they became a popular feature in heraldry, as well as in literature, philosophy, and politics. In heraldry, mottos typically appeared under the family crest or coat of arms, and they were often written in Latin or French. The motto served as a proud declaration of the family's values and principles, but it also served a practical purpose, as it could help identify different branches of the same family during battles or tournaments. As the use of mottos spread beyond heraldry, they became a way for individuals and organizations to express their values and beliefs in a concise and memorable manner. Today, mottos can be found on a variety of items, from business cards to book covers, and they continue to serve as a powerful symbol of a person or organization's values and principles.