talisman

[tal-is-muhn, -iz-]

noun

plural

talismans 

1. a stone, ring, or other object, engraved with figures or characters supposed to possess occult powers and worn as an amulet or charm.

2. any amulet or charm.

3. anything whose presence exercises a remarkable or powerful influence on human feelings or actions.

talisman

/ ˈtælɪzmən, ˌtælɪzˈmænɪk /

noun

1. a stone or other small object, usually inscribed or carved, believed to protect the wearer from evil influences

2. anything thought to have magical or protective powers

Other Word Forms

• talismanic adjective
• talismanical adjective
• talismanically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of talisman¹

First recorded in 1630–40; from French talisman, Spanish talismán or other Romance language, from Arabic ṭilasm, from Late Greek télesmon “completion, performance, consecrated object,” from Greek télesma “payment, payment to be made, outlay, expense,” a derivative of teleîn “to complete, perform” + -ma noun suffix of result. The final -n in the western Europen languages is unexplained.

Word History and Origins

Origin of talisman¹

C17: via French or Spanish from Arabic tilsam, from Medieval Greek telesma ritual, from Greek: consecration, from telein to perform a rite, complete, from telos end, result

Example Sentences

"The man for the big occasion," added former Scotland talisman McFadden.

Read more on BBC

She wore bangle earrings and rings etched with strange talismans on each of her gnarled fingers.

Read more on Literature

Scotland's talisman seemed to stop the bleeding with a penalty from the tee, but the wind was soon back in the Argentine sails as Rubiolo went over under the posts.

Read more on BBC

She padlocks the gate when she returns and buries witchy talismans around the property to ward off intruders.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Even in such low-key surroundings, he re-affirmed his position as England's talisman.

Read more on BBC