Literal meaning (the layer of the Earth):
* The Earth's mantle is a thick layer of hot, dense rock that lies beneath the crust.
* Geologists study the mantle to understand how the Earth's tectonic plates move.
Figurative meaning (a symbolic covering or responsibility):
* The new CEO inherited the mantle of leadership from his predecessor.
* After the king's death, his son took up the mantle of responsibility.
* The artist embraced the mantle of social commentary in her latest work.
Other examples:
* The fireplace mantle was decorated with family photos.
* The actor wore a long, flowing mantle for his role in the historical drama.
* The organization took on the mantle of fighting for environmental justice.
The meaning of "mantle" will depend on the context of the sentence.