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.
Chargers ‘Enthusiasm unknown to mankind’: How the Harbaugh family mantra began Nov. 25, 2024 Both brothers reached out to their parents before the game. Sam Farmer, Los Angeles Times, 26 Nov. 2024 Billions of dollars will surely be the mantra for this case going forward, on both sides. Dominic Patten, Deadline, 26 Nov. 2024 The Lions are the most complete team in the league, a byproduct of their fearless coach’s take-no-prisoners mantra. Zak Keefer, The Athletic, 25 Nov. 2024 But no matter the best-available mantra on draft nights, the draft also is about team building, as much about the future as the moment. Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 23 Nov. 2024 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 3 Dec. 2024.

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