Mantra: meaning, definitions and examples

🧘

Add to dictionary

mantra

[ˈmantrə ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

spirituality

A word or phrase that is repeated often in prayer or meditation, often used to help focus the mind and achieve a sense of calm or inner peace.

Synonyms

affirmation, chant, incantation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
mantra	Used in a spiritual or motivational context. Often repeated phrases or words that act as a focus for meditation or a reminder to stay positive. She repeated her mantra every morning: 'I am strong and capable.' His mantra helped him stay calm during stressful situations.
affirmation	Used in a self-help or psychological context. Positive statements that help reinforce a belief or motivate oneself. Daily affirmations can boost your self-esteem and confidence. Writing down affirmations such as 'I am worthy of love and happiness' can change your mindset.
chant	Used in a religious or organized group context. Rhythmic speaking or singing of words, usually as part of a ritual or ceremony. The monks' chant filled the temple with a serene atmosphere. Fans began a chant to support their team during the match.
incantation	Used in a magical or mystical context. Words spoken as part of a spell or ritual, often believed to have magical power. Sometimes has a negative connotation. The witch whispered an incantation to summon the spirits. He uttered an ancient incantation he found in the old book.

Examples of usage

She repeated the mantra 'peace and love' to help her relax.
His daily mantra helped him stay grounded and centered.
The mantra 'om' is commonly used in Hindu and Buddhist practices.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term comes from Sanskrit, where 'mantra' means 'instrument of thought'.
Historically, it refers to the sacred words used in Hinduism and Buddhism for meditation.
The use of mantras dates back thousands of years in ancient texts called the Vedas.

Cultural Significance

In many Eastern spiritual traditions, mantras are believed to aid in meditation and prayer, providing a direct path to spiritual awakening.
Different mantras are associated with different deities in Hinduism, where each has specific meanings and purposes.
In modern practices, many people use mantras as tools for motivation or personal growth, adapting traditional phrases for contemporary settings.

Psychology

Research has shown that repeating positive phrases can improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Cognitive behavioral therapy often incorporates mantras to help individuals challenge negative thoughts.
Studies suggest that mantra repetition can lead to a meditative state, enhancing relaxation and mental clarity.

Pop Culture

In recent years, 'mantra' has been popularized in wellness communities, with various wellness brands incorporating it into products and services.
Many self-help authors emphasize the use of personal mantras as a way to set intentions and improve mindset.
In music, some artists create songs that function like mantras, with repetitive lyrics designed to inspire or uplift.

Literature

Mantras often appear in poetry and literature, symbolizing a character's struggle or journey toward peace.
In various works of fiction, characters use mantras to cope with challenges, demonstrating the power of words.
Many spiritual books include sections dedicated to the use of mantras, highlighting their transformative effects.

Translations

Translations of the word "mantra" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mantra

🇮🇳 मंत्र

🇩🇪 Mantra

🇮🇩 mantra

🇺🇦 мантра

🇵🇱 mantra

🇯🇵 マントラ

🇫🇷 mantra

🇪🇸 mantra

🇹🇷 mantra

🇰🇷 만트라

🇸🇦 مانترا

🇨🇿 mantra

🇸🇰 mantra

🇨🇳 咒语

🇸🇮 mantra

🇮🇸 mantra

🇰🇿 мантра

🇬🇪 მანტრა

🇦🇿 mantra

🇲🇽 mantra

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,814, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
18811 squinted
18812 fangs
18813 concord
18814 mantra
18815 assailant
18816 steaks
18817 gauged
...