mantra

noun

man·​tra ˈmän-trə How to pronounce mantra (audio)
 also  ˈman-,
 or  ˈmən-
: a mystical formula of invocation (see invocation sense 2) or incantation (as in Hinduism)
also : watchword sense 2
"diversity" has become our multicultural mantra Manning Marable
mantric
ˈmän-trik How to pronounce mantra (audio)
 also  ˈman-
 or  ˈmən-
adjective

Examples of mantra in a Sentence

a businessman whose mantra is “bigger is better”
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Romance was in the air as Anderson’s mantra of love continued throughout the event. Kerane Marcellus, Essence, 13 Feb. 2025 Two-word mantras guided Alex Singleton during his NFL career: Be tough. Troy Renck, The Denver Post, 10 Feb. 2025 The mantra for the album was like, if your first instinct feels right, go with it. Ellise Shafer, Variety, 7 Feb. 2025 My mantra was to keep making the hotel better, but not in any way Helmut would notice. Benjamin Svetkey, The Hollywood Reporter, 7 Feb. 2025 See all Example Sentences for mantra 

Word History

Etymology

Sanskrit, sacred counsel, formula, from manyate he thinks; akin to Latin mens mind — more at mind

First Known Use

1795, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of mantra was in 1795

Dictionary Entries Near mantra

Cite this Entry

“Mantra.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mantra. Accessed 21 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on mantra

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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