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 Forest talisman scored two goals in his side's last home game against Brentford and will be licking his lips at the prospect of facing West Ham, who shipped five last week.

From BBC

Eze, 27, was Palace's talisman last season, scoring 14 goals and recording 11 assists in 43 games as the club won the FA Cup - the first major trophy in their history.

From BBC

Those words were splashed across the banner as Newcastle United fans saluted their talisman at St James' Park nine months ago.

From BBC

It led to the away end turning on their talisman after the game.

From BBC

They were also revered as talismans that warded off evil spirits.

From Los Angeles Times