byword

[ bahy-wurd ]

noun

1. a word or phrase associated with some person or thing; a characteristic expression, typical greeting, or the like.

   Synonyms: motto, slogan

2. a word or phrase used proverbially; common saying; proverb.

   Synonyms: maxim, adage, saw, aphorism, apothegm

3. an object of general reproach, derision, scorn, etc.:

   His crimes will make him a byword through the ages.

4. an epithet, often of scorn.

byword

/ ˈbaɪˌwɜːd /

noun

1. a person, place, or thing regarded as a perfect or proverbial example of something

   their name is a byword for good service

2. an object of scorn or derision
3. a common saying; proverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of byword¹

before 1050; Middle English biworde, Old English biwyrde. See by (adj.), word

Word History and Origins

Origin of byword¹

Old English bīwyrde ; see by , word ; compare Old High German pīwurti , from Latin prōverbium proverb

Example Sentences

Northern Ireland is far from a byword for stable government.

From BBC

“McMartin” became a byword for social contagion, hysteria and the epic failure of trusted institutions: law enforcement, courts, the child-therapy establishment and the media.

From Los Angeles Times

It ended with zero convictions, and “McMartin” became a byword for social contagion, hysteria and the epic failure of trusted institutions: law enforcement, courts, the child-therapy establishment and the media.

From Los Angeles Times

Now, the ANC is for many a byword for graft and failed government.

From Seattle Times

Announcing her shock defection on Wednesday, she hit out at Prime Minister Rishi Sunak saying under his leadership the Conservatives "have become a byword for incompetence and division".

From BBC