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Synonyms

battle cry

American  

noun

  1. a cry or shout of troops in battle.

  2. the phrase or slogan used in any contest or campaign.


battle cry British  

noun

  1. a shout uttered by soldiers going into battle

  2. a slogan used to rally the supporters of a campaign, movement, etc

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of battle cry

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Casting a human loss in the language of insult revealed how little moral gravity has to register before it is turned into another battle cry.

From Salon • Dec. 21, 2025

Olsen: The song also includes the moment that’s known as Elphaba’s battle cry.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 21, 2024

In today’s real-world context, Mr. Kerry’s battle cry is silly and self-destructive.

From Washington Times • Dec. 26, 2023

Blue is a University of Michigan color, and “Go Blue!” is a battle cry and common salutation among Wolverine fans.

From Seattle Times • Dec. 1, 2023

The spirits were calling her—a harmonious battle cry.

From "Shadowshaper" by Daniel José Older