1. A holy sound, a sacred word or a phrase which is repeated to aid in concentrating by those who are praying or meditating: When attending the church service, there were mantras being spoken several times by the minister and his congregation because they were expressing their thanks to God for his blessings and asking for His guidance.
2. A slogan or a statement that is repeated often: Carol's current mantra is to work s-l-o-w-l-y.

Some people in businesses use the mantra, "Bigger is better"; however, it isn't necessarily true.

The use of the mantra sounds of om mani padme hum is an aspect of Tibetan Buddhism.

3. Etymology: from the 18th century; Sanskrit, literally, "an instrument of thought" from man, "think".