major arcana

American  

[mey-jer ahr-key-nuh] / ˈmeɪ dʒər ɑrˈkeɪ nə /

noun

1. (used with a singular or plural verb) the set of 22 cards in a tarot deck that depict archetypal figures (often used attributively).

   The major arcana dominated in his tarot spread, confirming his impression that the universe was handing him challenge after challenge.

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Etymology

Origin of major arcana

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

I’d like to introduce your husband to the 11th Major Arcana tarot card.

From MarketWatch

He will only come face to face with the 11th Major Arcana if he truly feels the full impact of his actions, and I don’t think he should be let off the hook, if only because you want to prevent this from happening again.

From MarketWatch

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.”

From Los Angeles Times

The society displays a 19th-century Swiss tarot deck from its collection — others are seen on video — alongside photographs and commentary from Ms. Denny’s book “Major Arcana: Portraits of Witches in America.”

From New York Times

This is the last card in the Major Arcana.

From Los Angeles Times