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.
This was the watchword for Hollywood last year, repeated like a mantra at all levels of the industry, from studio execs to below-the-line crew members. Judy Berman, Time, 3 June 2025 And thank you to everyone who not only watched the show, but took Spencer James’s mantra of ‘Dream Big. Selome Hailu, Variety, 2 June 2025 And thank you to everyone who not only watched the show, but took Spencer James's mantra of 'Dream Big. Mekishana Pierre Published, EW.com, 2 June 2025 Following her lead, the crowd repeats the popular protest mantra. Catherine E. Shoichet, CNN Money, 28 May 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 6 Jun. 2025.

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