pentacle

[pen-tuh-kuh l]

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noun

pentagram.

a similar figure, as a hexagram.

Origin of pentacle

First recorded in 1585–95, pentacle is from the Italian word pentacolo five-cornered object. See penta-, -cle¹

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019

Related Words for pentacle

cinquefoil, pentangle, pentagram, quintuple, lustrum, cinque, quinquennium, quintuplet, pentagon, limerick, pentad, quincunx, quinquennial, quintuplicate

Examples from the Web for pentacle

Historical Examples of pentacle

But very remarkable, in the mid-roof, is the boss of the pentacle of Solomon.
Footprints of Former Men in Far Cornwall
Robert S. Hawker
It was only a partial 'defense' therefore, and I nearly died in the pentacle.
Carnacki, The Ghost Finder
William Hope Hodgson
Then, 'round him, I drew upon the floor the figure of a Pentacle, in chalk.
Carnacki, The Ghost Finder
William Hope Hodgson
I felt happier then; for this Pentacle is, as you all know, a wonderful 'Defense.'
Carnacki, The Ghost Finder
William Hope Hodgson
Like lightning, the thought sprang into my brain:—IT has crossed the Pentacle.
Carnacki, The Ghost Finder
William Hope Hodgson

British Dictionary definitions for pentacle

pentacle

noun

another name for pentagram

Word Origin for pentacle

C16: from Italian pentacolo something having five corners; see penta-

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

Word Origin and History for pentacle

1590s, from Medieval Latin pentaculum "pentagram," a hybrid coined from Greek pente "five" (see five) + Latin -culum, diminutive (or instrumental) suffix. OED notes other similar words: Italian had pentacolo "anything with five points," and French pentacle (16c.) was the name of something used in necromancy, perhaps a five-branched candlestick; French had pentacol "amulet worn around the neck" (14c.), from pend- "to hang" + a "to" + col "neck." The same figure as a pentagram, except in magical usage, where it has been extended to other symbols of power, including a six-point star. Related: Pentacular.