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 Our emphasis on student success, both present success and future success, have always been our mantra. Caroline Beck, The Indianapolis Star, 16 Oct. 2024 Despite this, the mantra from EV aficionados doesn’t change. Neil Winton, Forbes, 13 Oct. 2024 Thus, my host mantra is -- be gracious, be gracious, be gracious. Marni Jameson, arkansasonline.com, 5 Oct. 2024 But there are plenty of other strategies to quiet the mean voice in your head and hype yourself up if mantras aren’t your thing. Jenna Ryu, SELF, 4 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for mantra 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'mantra.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on mantra

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!