go-to

[ goh-too ]

noun

1. a reliable person or thing one turns to as a preferred resource, strategy, option, etc.:

   She’s our go-to for computer advice.

   This dish is my go-to when I need something quick for a potluck.

2. a person’s standard way of behaving or responding; reflex:

   He’s not trying to impress you—that courtly politeness is his go-to with everybody.

adjective

1. relied on and turned to as a preferred resource, strategy, option, etc., for a particular purpose:

   She’s been the team’s go-to penalty kicker all season.

   This is my go-to dictionary.

2. being a person’s standard way of behaving or responding; usual or habitual:

   When I tell them to get off the computer, their go-to excuse is that they need it for homework.

go to

verb

1. to be awarded to

   the Nobel prize last year went to a Scot

2. go to it
   to tackle a task vigorously

interjection

1. archaic.
   an exclamation expressing surprise, encouragement, etc

adjective

1. 1. (of a person) extremely dependable

      the go-to guy in the team

   2. (of a place) popularly visited

      go-to destinations

Word History and Origins

Origin of go-to¹

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

With the numerical advantage, you expected Steve Clarke's go-to men to step forward.

From BBC

He grew into the team’s go-to scorer as a senior.

From Los Angeles Times

The stores are your go-to for Tiana-themed plushies, headgear and toys, including an interactive and wearable light-up firefly.

From Los Angeles Times

According to his former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski, Trump’s go-to order at McDonald’s is “two Big Macs, two Filet-O-Fish and a chocolate malted.”

From Salon

Both Barrymore and Stewart smiled and laughed it off as the crowd applauded, but it definitely seemed clear that Stewart wasn't especially fond of Barrymore's classic "touchy-feely" interviewing style that's become a go-to penchant on the show.

From Salon

Related Words

• approach
• attain
• contact
• end
• go
• join
• lead
• make
• pass
• stand
• strike