major arcana

[ mey-jer ahr-key-nuh ]

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): Compare minor arcana ( def ).

   The major arcana dominated in his tarot spread, confirming his impression that the universe was handing him challenge after challenge.

Word History and Origins

Origin of major arcana¹

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

The society displays a 19th-century Swiss tarot deck from its collection — others are seen on video — alongside photographs and commentary from Ms. Denny’s book “Major Arcana: Portraits of Witches in America.”

From New York Times

This is the last card in the Major Arcana.

From Los Angeles Times

This is the last card in the Major Arcana.

From Los Angeles Times

House of Intuition carries a wide variety of astrological candles, but on a recent visit, a salesman suggested the Major Arcana Empress candle for Mother’s Day because it exudes “major mom vibes.”

From Los Angeles Times