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.
Say this over and over until its a mantra around her. Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 10 June 2025 But going back to the mantra of we’re going to do it better than everybody’s ever done it before. Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 8 June 2025 Owner Jason Zeman acknowledges that a supportive local government has contributed to the club’s success, but Studio 13’s mantra is based on supporting individual identity. Diana Lambdin Meyer, USA Today, 5 June 2025 Related Stories Las Vegas Studio Proposal Backed by Sony and Warner Bros. Dies in Nevada Legislature Coppola’s presence at the festival reflects the involvement of Chanel, a partner of the festival whose mantra is to shine a spotlight on young talent in front and behind the camera. Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 5 June 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 18 Jun. 2025.

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