watchword
/ˈwɑtʃˌwɜrd/
noun
- A word or phrase that expresses a person's or group's guiding principle or goal.
- The team's watchword for the project was 'efficiency'.
- Their watchword, 'freedom for all,' inspired many to join the movement.
- Safety became the watchword after the factory accident.
- A secret word or phrase used to identify someone as a friend or ally.
- Only those who knew the watchword could enter the secret meeting.
- The spy gave the correct watchword and was allowed to pass.
- The soldier whispered the watchword to the guard at the gate.