mantra

noun

man·​tra ˈmän-trə 

 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 

 also  ˈman-

 or  ˈmən-

adjective

Examples of mantra in a Sentence

a businessman whose mantra is “bigger is better”

Recent Examples on the Web

In fact, her mantra around confidence is all about feeling beautiful from the inside out. —Michelle Lee, Peoplemag, 18 Apr. 2024

The risk of being left behind is too unpalatable for business leaders, and one mantra was clear as founders and tech executives discussed the topic onstage in London: Companies have to pick the right ways to use AI. —Bypaolo Confino, Fortune, 15 Apr. 2024

Her mantra is not to take things so seriously and focus on adding joy and brightness, sharing room decor advice alongside motivational and lifestyle content. —Kara Peeler, Sunset Magazine, 15 Apr. 2024

If things start to go sideways against Louisiana State and flamboyant star Angel Reese, UCLA can always go back to the mantra that has carried it through difficult moments. —Ben Bolch, Los Angeles Times, 28 Mar. 2024

The heroic panda, Po (Jack Black), plops under a blossoming peach tree, relaxes his paws and attempts to concentrate on a mantra. —Amy Nicholson, Washington Post, 6 Mar. 2024

Drew Barrymore is living by her mantra that sharing your story will make others feel less alone. —Wendy Naugle, Peoplemag, 11 Apr. 2024

Recite some intentional mantras to bolster your belief in yourself. —Essence Lifestyle, Essence, 1 Apr. 2024

The mantra for pro-housing advocates is that creating an adequate supply of homes will lower prices. —Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 31 Mar. 2024

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