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.
That became my mantra, and Sunday mornings in the garden became my place of worship. Malaka Gharib, NPR, 19 Mar. 2025 For Aztecs coach Stacie Terry-Hutson, there has been both a mantra and a theme to this season. Bill Center, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Mar. 2025 According to The Guardian, the Ambanis sent an engraved box depicting a Hindu deity that was filled with gifts and played Hindu mantras as a wedding invitation. Kimberlee Speakman, People.com, 13 Mar. 2025 Use everything at your disposal to stay inspired like mantras, books, pictures, or warm up trips to avoid losing interest. Sean McNally, Outdoor Life, 13 Mar. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mantra.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mantra. Accessed 1 Apr. 2025.

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