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arcanum

[ ahr-key-nuhm ]

noun

plural arcana [ahr-, key, -n, uh].
  1. Often arcana. secret or arcane knowledge, acquired or understood by only a few:

    If you enjoy the arcana of early baseball, this book is for you.

  2. a supposed great secret of nature that the alchemists sought to discover.
  3. a secret and powerful remedy; elixir.


arcanum

/ ɑːˈkeɪnəm /

noun

  1. sometimes plural a profound secret or mystery known only to initiates
  2. a secret of nature sought by alchemists
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
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Word History and Origins

Origin of arcanum1

First recorded in 1590–1600; from Latin, neuter (used as noun) of arcānus arcane ( def )
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Word History and Origins

Origin of arcanum1

C16: from Latin; see arcane
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Example Sentences

Among the ultra-blessed 22 cards in the tarot’s major arcana — that is, the cards that have the power to shift the narrative of destiny — we find “The World.”

The past four years have been filled with battles over all sorts of election arcana, including one that had long been regarded as an administrative afterthought — little-known state and local boards certifying the results.

It’s a solid if typical entry into the Pavement slacker-rock arcana.

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

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

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arcanistarcanum arcanorum