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 That’s the welcoming mantra of the square dance group at Glen Mar Church, 4701 New Cut Road. Janet Kusterer, Baltimore Sun, 7 Aug. 2024 The mantra holds true whether Enquist is consulting for professional sports teams, college squads or even corporate businesses. Thuc Nhi Nguyen, Los Angeles Times, 5 Aug. 2024 Owning less while living more is the mantra of the share economy. Brianna Kamienski, USA TODAY, 31 July 2024 And yet, uncertainty is the mantra in Caracas these days. Stefano Pozzebon, CNN, 23 July 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 8 Sep. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on mantra

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