arcana

American  

[ahr-key-nuh] / ɑrˈkeɪ nə /

noun

1. arcanum.

2. (used with a singular or plural verb) either of the two types of tarot cards in a deck, the minor arcana and the major arcana.

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arcana British  

/ ɑːˈkeɪnə, -ˈkɑː- /

noun

1. either of the two divisions (the minor arcana and the major arcana ) of a pack of tarot cards

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Etymology

Origin of arcana

First recorded in 1600–10; from Latin; neuter plural (used as a noun) of arcanum ( def. )

Example Sentences

Classes look a lot like college in an earlier era: more Great Books and Socratic method, less arcana and critical theory.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 21, 2026

The point is that they aren’t arcana that’s only known to the most devoted of Boss fans, so the dissonance between what the audience knows and what they’re being told will have an impact.

From Salon • Oct. 28, 2025

The 56 minor arcana cards — which mirror the pattern of common playing cards — represent “daily challenges and opportunities.”

From Los Angeles Times • May 2, 2024

Under the arcana of the committee’s rules, however, Mr. Trump cannot simply install someone.

From New York Times • Feb. 6, 2024

Anger sits just beneath my skin, mingling with my arcana.

From "The Belles" by Dhonielle Clayton