2 syllables: Mot, to. Stress on Mot.
MAH-toh
/ˈmɑtoʊ/
Motto is pronounced MAH-toh (/ˈmɑtoʊ/). It has two syllables (Mot-to), with the stress on "Mot". A motto is a short, formal phrase or sentence chosen to express the beliefs or guiding principles of an individual, group, or organization. It functions as a concise ideological statement and a memorable rallying cry. Commonly used in heraldry, institutions, and branding, it encapsulates values you want to live by.
nounA motto is a short, formal phrase or sentence chosen to express the beliefs or guiding principles of an individual, group, or organization. It functions as a concise ideological statement and a memorable rallying cry. Commonly used in heraldry, institutions, and branding, it encapsulates values you want to live by.
"The university’s motto, 'Lux et Veritas,' reflects its commitment to truth and light in scholarship."
"Our team adopted a new motto to stay focused during the project sprint."
"The charity’s motto emphasizes compassion, accountability, and service to the community."
Motto is two syllables, with primary stress on the first: /ˈmɒt.oʊ/ (US) or /ˈmɒ.təʊ/ (UK/AU). The first vowel is a short, broad 'o' as in 'cot,' and the second syllable uses a schwa or a mid 'o' depending on accent. In connected speech, the second syllable often reduces to a quick 'toh' or 'to,' giving a light, lilting finish. Practice by pronouncing 'MOT' clearly, then lightly voicing 'to' to finish the word.
Common errors include over-pronouncing the second syllable, making it a full 'toh' as in 'tomato,' and misplacing stress as a weak-second-syllable word. Another frequent mistake is the 't' blending into a flapped or softened sound in rapid speech, which makes it sound like 'Mow-to' or 'Mot-uh' with an extra vowel. Correct by keeping primary stress on the first syllable and using a crisp, short second syllable with a light 'o' or schwa.
In US English, the first vowel often uses a broader 'o' (as in 'cot'), with a later 'to' pronounced with a full vowel. UK and Australian pronunciations lean toward a shorter, closer second syllable, with a shorter 'o' sound and an even lighter ending. The rhoticity difference affects the r-coloring of the first syllable in some American varieties, but 'motto' remains non-rhotic to most British listeners where the final vowel is less pronounced.
The difficulty often lies in keeping the primero syllable stressed while ensuring the second syllable is quick and reduced. The blend of /t/ with a following /oʊ/ (US) or /əʊ/ (UK) can tilt toward an elongated second syllable if not careful. Also, in connected speech, the end vowel is subtle, so many speakers over-articulate or add an extra vowel. Focus on crisp consonant + brief, unstressed second syllable.
A unique feature is the potential for the second syllable to be fully unstressed in fast speech: MOT-to, but often heard as MOT-oh or MOT-tuh depending on regional habit. You can hear this variance in media from different dialects, where some speakers insert a fuller 'o' in the second syllable. Paying attention to speaker speed and formality will help you choose the appropriate degree of vowel length.
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Motto comes from the Italian motto meaning 'word' or 'legend,' itself derived from the Latin motus 'moved, inspired' in the sense of 'what moves you' or 'something one is moved to say.' Historically, mottos were short phrases carved on coins, crests, and banners; early modern usage in Europe tied them to heraldry and aristocratic lineage. By the 17th and 18th centuries, as nationalism and institutional branding grew, mottoes became formal slogans adopted by universities, religious orders, and military units. In English, motto was absorbed with the broader sense of a memorable phrase that expresses core values, distinct from long-winded creeds. The pronunciation drifted toward a two-syllable form in many dialects, with the first syllable bearing primary stress, and the vowel reduced in rapid speech. Today, motto is a staple in branding and self-expression, frequently used in corporate statements and personal mantras. First known use in English literature traces to the 17th century, aligning with Italian and Latin roots that emphasize word, voice, and guiding principle.
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Words that rhyme with "Motto"
-ts) sounds
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