battle cry

American  

noun

1. a cry or shout of troops in battle.

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

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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

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Etymology

Origin of battle cry

First recorded in 1805–15

Example Sentences

That includes two songs for Egmont’s love, Klärchen, four entr’actes, a melodrama for Egmont as he approaches his execution and, powerfully as only Beethoven can, a battle cry.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 19, 2026

"You have no idea the fire that you have ignited within this wife, the cries of this widow will echo around the world like a battle cry," she said.

From BBC • Sep. 13, 2025

About a year ago, “We won’t go back” became a battle cry, and look how that turned out.

From Salon • Apr. 8, 2025

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

From Washington Times • Dec. 26, 2023

He was immune and terrible, and his song had become a battle cry.

From "The Pearl" by John Steinbeck