mantra

noun

man·​tra ˈmän-trə 

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 

also ˈman-

or ˈmən-

adjective

Examples of mantra in a Sentence

a businessman whose mantra is “bigger is better”

Recent Examples on the Web

But the bills are harder to dismiss, and the single mother with six children in her care repeated something like a mantra. — Jesse Bedayn, Los Angeles Times, 25 Oct. 2026

Official club events are following the ‘business as usual’ mantra amid the ongoing Premier League controversy, while former City players in the media are being asked some difficult questions. — Sam Lee, New York Times, 23 Oct. 2026

The hotel interprets this mantra through balanced proportions, restrained interiors, and a hospitality approach that favors comfort over excess. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026

That mantra held true for Sakurai’s second feature, Bad Trip, starring André and Lil Rel Howery. — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 21 Oct. 2026

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

Rhymes for mantra

• tantra