e pluribus unum

e pluribus unum

A Latin phrase meaning "one out of many." Considered a motto of the United States, it is inscribed on many US coins and the Great Seal. When I hear E Pluribus Unum, I think about how our nation is one country of many peoples.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • hic
  • hic jacet
  • T(I)MTOWTDI
  • a penny for them
  • a word to the wise
  • be twiddling (one's) thumbs
  • be twiddling your thumbs
  • (as) sure as eggs (is eggs)
  • mint condition
  • but for the grace of God
References in periodicals archive
For many years, "E Pluribus Unum" served as our nation's unofficial motto.
Motto mania: Religious Right allies in the house rally for 'in god we Trust'
In an opinion piece on the matter that ran in The Washington Post, Lynn wrote, "I'd like to see us get back to the spirit of 'E Pluribus Unum,' but I also know that the cur-rent legislative fetish for what some scholars call 'civil religion' makes that well nigh impossible.
U.S. House supports 'in God We Trust' postings in public schools
"E Pluribus Unum is Latin for 'Out of many, one,'" said Lynn.
Americans United criticizes congressional vote in favor of religious motto
coins with "E Pluribus Unum" or "Unum E Pluribus" (one from many) were the New Jersey coppers in 1786; some experimental pattern Confederation coppers, including a Washington likeness in 1786; and the New York Brasher gold doubloons and Excelsior coppers in 1787.
Money mottos: reflections of liberty?
The letter adds, "We call on Baptists to recommit themselves to the nation's founding principle of 'E Pluribus Unum.' A society based on unity out of diversity will embrace every child and recognize the vital role public schools play in achieving national unity."
Moderate Baptists fend off SBC attacks on public education
The other half shows a spread eagle grasping olive branch and arrows in its talons, a scrolled E Pluribus Unum in its beak, and the thirteen stars of the colonial states forming one large star above its head.
The good fight: the case for socialism in the twenty-first century
It allows schools to display "In God We Trust" and "E Pluribus Unum" posters and even mandates the size--11-by-14-inches.
AU Okla. Chapter helps public schools support E Pluribus Unum
* An anti-terrorism bill in South Carolina contains an unusual feature: a provision requiring public schools to post "In God We Trust" and "E Pluribus Unum." The bill, which deals primarily with criminal justice issues, is pending before the House Judiciary Committee.
Va. Legislators approve `In God We Trust' courtroom postings. (People & Events)
As our first national motto - E Pluribus Unum - put it, we are one nation out of many peoples.
Separation And Sept. 11: Rejecting The Rants Of The Demagogues