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.
Integrating our storytelling with Idris’ work in Sierra Leone [with] our giving back mantra [is] be[ing] authentic in that world. Megan Poinski, Forbes.com, 13 Aug. 2025 The royal family has stayed faithful to the late queen’s mantra – never complain, never explain. Stephanie Nolasco , Ashley Papa, FOXNews.com, 6 Aug. 2025 Throughout the tumult, Ellison seemingly stuck by his mantra that superior storytelling is the way to drive long-term value. Matt Donnelly, Variety, 5 Aug. 2025 Rae penned Seek Beyond’s mantra, which encapsulates that. Taryn Finley, Refinery29, 29 July 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 19 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on mantra

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!