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.
That mantra has helped Discount Tire become an integral part of its employees' lives. Eileen Falkenberg-Hull, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 May 2025 Jeter’s mantra is in line with advice from experts. Nicolas Vega, CNBC, 6 May 2025 With or without a Derby win, McCarthy will return to his mantra. Dana O'Neil, New York Times, 1 May 2025 Last month, the Cruel Intentions star spoke exclusively to PEOPLE about her candid and relatable fashion mantra. Angel Saunders, People.com, 30 Apr. 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 15 May. 2025.

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