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Sigil: meaning, definitions and examples

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sigil

 

[ˈsɪdʒɪl ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

magic symbol

A sigil is a symbol that is created for a specific purpose, often used in magical practices or as part of a ritual. It is believed to hold power and significance, functioning as a representation of a desired outcome or intention.

Synonyms

emblem, mark, sign, symbol.

Examples of usage

  • She painted a sigil for protection.
  • The wizard crafted a sigil to summon a spirit.
  • He carved the sigil into the ground as part of the ritual.
  • The sigil glowed softly during the ceremony.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'sigillum', meaning 'seal' or 'sign'.
  • It has roots in ancient languages, showing its long history as a form of communication.
  • The term has evolved over centuries to encompass various forms of symbols used in mysticism.

Historical Use

  • In medieval times, people used sigils in alchemy and magic to represent spirits or intentions.
  • Knights often had sigils on their shields to signify their families which were powerful symbols of identity.
  • Sigils were also used in ancient Israelite cultures as spiritual symbols, representing divine protection.

Pop Culture

  • Sigils appear frequently in fantasy literature and games as powerful magical symbols.
  • In the popular series 'Game of Thrones', each house has its own sigil representing their family values and history.
  • Modern media often depicts sigils in superhero stories to represent the hero's special powers or connections.

Psychology

  • The act of creating sigils can serve as a form of visualization, which has potential benefits for mental focus and intention setting.
  • Many practitioners believe that writing out a desire as a sigil can help manifest it into reality, tapping into the subconscious mind.
  • Research shows that symbols help people process complex ideas, which is why sigils can hold significant personal meaning.

Art and Design

  • Creating sigils can be a form of personal art, allowing individuals to express themselves creatively.
  • The aesthetics of sigils often draw from various art movements, blending old traditions with modern interpretations.
  • Some contemporary artists use sigils in their work to explore themes of identity, mysticism, and spirituality.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #38,211, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.