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 Embrace the less-is-more mantra to keep things feeling sophisticated and airy. —Cori Sears, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 May 2024 And the reason is because our sort of our mantra is customer obsession drives profitable growth. —Fortune Editors, Fortune, 29 May 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

Mantoux test

mantra

mantrap

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Cite this Entry

“Mantra.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mantra. Accessed 6 Jun. 2024.

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More from Merriam-Webster on mantra

Nglish: Translation of mantra for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of mantra for Arabic Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about mantra

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