mantra
UK[ˈmæn.trə]US[ˈmæn.trə]
n
a word or phrase that is repeated often and expresses a particular strong belief
n
a word or sound that is repeated as a prayer or to help people meditate in the hindu and buddhist religions
Etymology
the word 'mantra' entered english in the late 18th century, borrowed directly from sanskrit. in sanskrit, 'mantra' (मन्त्र) is a compound formed from the root 'man-' meaning 'to think' and the instrumental suffix '-tra', thus literally meaning 'an instrument of thought' or 'a tool for the mind'. this etymology perfectly captures its dual function: as a sacred formula or prayer used in vedic religion and later hinduism and buddhism, it is an instrument for focusing the mind and spirit. the modern, secular meaning—a frequently repeated statement or slogan—logically extends from this original sense of a potent, formulaic utterance designed to shape consciousness.
Analysis
this word is a direct loanword from sanskrit. it is not productively formed from smaller, recognizable english morphemes and therefore is not segmented.
Examples
the team's mantra has always been to focus on the fundamentals.
she repeated the calming mantra during her meditation session.
his mantra of "innovation and efficiency" guided the company's strategy.