talisman

[ tal-is-muhn, -iz- ]

noun

, plural tal·is·mans.

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

Derived Forms

• talismanic, adjective

Other Words From

• tal·is·man·ic [tal-is-, man, -ik, -iz-], talis·mani·cal adjective
• talis·mani·cal·ly 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

A talisman that is going to throw the gauntlet at the Springboks.

From BBC

Yankees talisman Aaron Judge, who had a disappointing night with three strikeouts, then stranded two runners as extra innings loomed.

From BBC

He not only scored the winner but flung himself in front of Cole Palmer when Chelsea's in-form talisman looked poised to strike.

From BBC

In midlife, he’s begun collecting any talisman he feels may instruct him in how to live.

From Los Angeles Times

The honey always felt like a talisman of sorts, hoping its sweetness would last, and not become eclipsed by sorrow.

From Los Angeles Times