See Also: motto(dictionary)
motto(dictionary)

rez-de-chaussee (iou) and motto (iou)


rez-de-chaussee (iou)



rez-de-chaussee noun. E19.
[French, lit. 'level with the street'.]
The ground floor of a building.

motto (iou)



motto noun & verb. L16.
[Italian from Proto-Gallo-Romance word whence also MOT noun2.]
A. noun. Pl. -o(e)s.
Orig., a sentence or phrase attached to an emblematical design to explain its significance. Later, a short sentence or phrase inscribed on an object, expressing a reflection or sentiment considered appropriate to its purpose or destination. Also, a maxim adopted as a rule of conduct. L16.
W. S. Churchill With the motto 'Trust the People'..he appealed to the rank and file. S. J. Perelman Think in telegrams, that's my motto. U. Holden With a Latin motto on the blazer pocket.
b. Heraldry. A significant word or sentence usu. placed on a scroll, either below an achievement of arms or above the crest, usu. expressing a maxim, aspiration, etc. E17.
O. Neubecker Mottoes become an integral part of the coat of arms.
c. A verse or saying in a paper cracker etc. M19.
A short quotation or epigram placed at the beginning of a book, chapter, etc.; an epigraph. E18.
A sweet wrapped in fancy paper together with a saying or scrap of verse. Also motto-kiss. US. M19.
Music. A recurrent phrase having some symbolical significance. L19.
b. verb trans. Inscribe with a motto. M18.