Definition

Noun: 1. A sacred utterance, formula, or sound: In Hinduism and Buddhism, a word, phrase, or sound, often from Sanskrit, that is repeated during meditation or prayer and is believed to have spiritual power. 2. A commonly repeated word, phrase, or slogan: Any statement or principle that is frequently repeated, often to the point of being a cliché, and expresses a core belief or aim.

Usage and Examples

• Spiritual/Religious Context:

  • The monk chanted the ancient mantra for hours.
  • "Om" is a well-known mantra used in meditation.

• Figurative/Modern Context:

  • The coach's mantra was "hard work beats talent."
  • She kept repeating the mantra "breathe and focus" before her presentation.

Advanced Usage

• "To become a mantra": To become a frequently repeated and guiding principle.
  • "Innovation and disruption" has become the mantra of the tech industry.

Variants and Related Words

• Mantric (adjective): Relating to or characteristic of a mantra.
  • The chanting had a slow, mantric rhythm.

Synonyms

• Chant: A repeated rhythmic phrase, typically one shouted or sung.
• Slogan: A short, memorable phrase used in advertising or associated with a group.
• Maxim: A short, pithy statement expressing a general truth or rule of conduct.
• Incantation: A series of words said as a magic spell or charm.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "Like a mantra": Used to describe something that is repeated frequently and consistently.
  • He recited the safety procedures like a mantra.

Noun

1. (Sanskrit) literally a `sacred utterance' in Vedism; one of a collection of orally transmitted poetic hymns
2. a commonly repeated word or phrase
   • she repeated `So pleased with how its going' at intervals like a mantra