sigil

[ sij-il ]

noun

1. a pictorial symbol used in ritualistic magic and supposed to have supernatural power: Create a sigil to represent your goal or resolution and carve it into the candle.

   Seven sigils spell out the names of the seven archangels who govern the days of the week.

   Create a sigil to represent your goal or resolution and carve it into the candle.

2. a seal or signet.

sigil

/ ˈsɪdʒɪl; ˈsɪdʒɪlərɪ /

noun

1. a seal or signet
2. a sign or image supposedly having magical power

Derived Forms

• sigillary, adjective

Other Words From

• sig·il·lar·y [sij, -, uh, -ler-ee], adjective
• sig·il·is·tic [sij-i-, lis, -tik], adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of sigil¹

First recorded in 1600–10; from Latin sigillum “statuette, figure, stamped figure,” diminutive of signum sign; seal ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of sigil¹

C17: from Latin sigillum a little sign, from signum a sign

Example Sentences

The Teen’s true identity remains a secret thanks to the sigil hex that prevents others from hearing any identifying information about him, including his real name.

From Los Angeles Times

“It’s a protection sigil,” AdaLioryn said of her ceramic God’s eye with bird wings cast on each side of it.

From Los Angeles Times

Just as decorated trees and twinkly lights are simply an expression of the joy of Christmas, the rainbow flag is simply the sigil of something more essential — the power of the LGBTQ+ community throughout its historic struggles and a celebration of humanity in all its glorious forms.

From Los Angeles Times

The sigil is said to encourage the articulation of thoughts and feelings and aid in making music.

From Los Angeles Times

Five months ago, Carucci got a ponto riscado tattooed on their throat — a sigil meant to invoke specific work with the main god in the Afro-Brazilian religion they practice, known as Quimbanda and Umbanda.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• autograph
• identification
• ink
• name
• seal
• stamp
• trademark