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.
Deep breaths can help, or mantras that a parent will be there to pick them up. Taylor Grothe, Parents, 10 Dec. 2024 As with her fine, straight hair and penchant for binging Lifetime movies on a Sunday afternoon, this mantra of hers has also become mine. Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 8 Dec. 2024 The Errors Tour Anyone who's ever done a live performance knows the one big mantra to live by: The show must go on. Lauren Huff, EW.com, 7 Dec. 2024 Moshiri constantly communicates his mantra that accountability should always flow up (not down) in order to shape any organization into a serious competitor in the industry. Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 29 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 21 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on mantra

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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