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Amulet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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amulet

[ˈæm.jə.lət ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

wearable protection

An amulet is an object that is worn or carried to bring protection or good luck to the person wearing it. It is believed to ward off negative energy and evil spirits.

Synonyms

charm, lucky charm, talisman.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
amulet

An object typically worn as a necklace or in some cases on the body, believed to have protective powers against evil, danger, or disease.

  • She wore an amulet to protect herself from bad luck.
  • The ancient Egyptians often buried their dead with amulets to ensure safe passage to the afterlife.
charm

An item believed to bring good luck, often small and worn on a bracelet or carried in a pocket. It can also refer to a spell or a pleasing trait in a person.

  • He kept his grandmother's charm in his pocket for good luck.
  • She has a certain charm that makes everyone like her.
talisman

An object, typically inscribed or engraved, believed to contain magical properties and to bring protection or good fortune. It often has a mystical or spiritual aspect.

  • The old witch gave him a talisman to ward off evil spirits.
  • He believed the talisman would bring him the success he desperately needed.
lucky charm

A small object carried or worn by someone because they believe it will bring them good fortune.

  • She never takes an exam without her lucky charm.
  • He always wears the same lucky charm bracelet during his football games.

Examples of usage

  • The ancient Egyptians often wore amulets to protect themselves from harm.
  • She always wears her lucky amulet when she goes for an important job interview.
  • Many cultures have their own traditional amulets for different purposes.
  • Amulets can come in various forms, such as pendants, bracelets, or rings.
  • Some people believe that amulets have magical powers to keep them safe.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

  • Ancient Egyptians often wore amulets to safeguard against diseases and ensure safe passage in the afterlife.
  • In medieval Europe, amulets were commonly inscribed with religious symbols, believed to ward off evil spirits.

Cultural Beliefs

  • Many cultures around the world believe in protective charms; for example, in Mexico, the 'mal de ojo' amulet is used against the evil eye.
  • In Hinduism, 'nazar' beads are used as a deterrent to negative energies and are a common form of amulet.

Modern Usage

  • Today, amulets have become trendy jewelry, with many people wearing them for style rather than their historical protective properties.
  • Wearing personalized or family-related charms as amulets reflects modern sentiments of identity and belonging.

Origin of 'amulet'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'amulet' comes from the Latin 'amuletum,' which means 'that which protects.'
  • In ancient languages, similar words like the Greek 'amuletos' suggested a meaning tied to protection.

The word 'amulet' comes from the Latin word 'amuletum', meaning 'an object that provides protection'. Throughout history, amulets have been used by various cultures around the world as a form of spiritual protection. They are often made from materials believed to have special powers, such as precious stones or metals. The tradition of wearing amulets continues to this day, with many people still relying on them for luck and protection.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,482, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.