major arcana

[mey-jer ahr-key-nuh]

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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of major arcana¹

First recorded in 1890–95

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.”

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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.”

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This is the last card in the Major Arcana.

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House of Intuition carries a wide variety of astrological candles, but on a recent visit, a salesman suggested the Major Arcana Empress candle for Mother’s Day because it exudes “major mom vibes.”

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Because 2+0+2+2 adds up to six, and the Lovers card is the sixth card in the major arcana — the first 22 cards in a tarot deck.

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