mantra

noun

man·​tra ˈmän-trə How to pronounce mantra (audio)
also ˈman-
or ˈmən-
1
: a mystical formula of invocation (see invocation sense 2) or incantation (as in Hinduism)
2
: a word or phrase that is repeated often or expresses the beliefs of a person or group : 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.
France took that mantra to the extreme. — James Horncastle, New York Times, 26 June 2026 With that mantra in mind, some outdoor amenities top the no-go list. — Jennifer S. Li, Architectural Digest, 23 June 2026 This statement, which is repeated like a mantra in countless spaces, is only a half-truth. — Vicente Pava, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 But Artisan’s teachings sometimes veer from self-growth mantras to crude jokes and objectification. — Rob Picheta, CNN Money, 27 June 2026 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 at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of mantra was in 1795

Rhymes for mantra

See All Rhymes for mantra

Browse Nearby Words

Mantoux test
mantra
mantrap
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Mantra.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mantra. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on mantra

Nglish: Translation of mantra for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about mantra

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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