A saying or proverb that is often repeated; something a person or thing is famous for, often in a negative way.
Compound of 'by-' and 'word' (Old English 'word'). Originally meant a word or phrase commonly used in passing, evolved to mean something a person is notorious for or a common saying.
If someone becomes a 'byword for laziness,' it means they're so famous for that quality that their name literally replaces the word! Shakespeare made 'byword' famous by using it to describe people whose reputations preceded them.
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