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

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 • Nov. 18, 2024

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.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 30, 2021

On a fourteen-acre site, Saint Phalle planned to represent the twenty-two figures of the Tarot’s major arcana.

From The New Yorker • Apr. 18, 2016

The 22 major arcana, issued as a part of the Kabala unveiled, by Fra Aquarius, scribe. © 1Dec33; AA136469.

From U.S. Copyright Renewals, 1961 January - June by Library of Congress. Copyright Office