Talisman - Definition, Meaning, and Examples in English

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

lucky charm

A talisman is an object believed to bring good luck and protect the person who owns it. Talismans can take many forms, such as stones, coins, or jewelry, and are often worn or carried for protection.

Synonyms

amulet, charm, lucky charm.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
talisman	Used to describe an object believed to have magical or mystical powers, often for protection. It's a formal term typically found in more serious or mystical contexts. He carried a talisman to ward off evil spirits. The ancient talisman was said to bring good fortune to its wearer.
amulet	Refers to a small object or piece of jewelry that someone wears for protection against bad luck, illness, or harm. The term is commonly used in historical or cultural contexts. She wore an amulet around her neck to protect herself from harm. The villagers believed that the amulet kept their children safe.
charm	Describes an object believed to bring good luck or to have a magical influence. Charm can also refer to the spell itself. It has a more casual tone compared to talisman and amulet. He keeps a little charm on his keychain for good luck. The bracelet was full of small charms, each with its own meaning.
lucky charm	A specific type of charm explicitly meant to bring good luck. This term is informal and often used in everyday speech. She never goes to an exam without her lucky charm. For the game, he put his lucky charm in his pocket.

Examples of usage

The horseshoe hanging above the door was considered a talisman for good luck.
She always wore a small pendant that she believed was her lucky talisman.
Many cultures have their own traditional talismans to ward off evil spirits.
Carrying a talisman is said to provide a sense of security and comfort.
The talisman was passed down through generations as a symbol of protection.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Significance

Many cultures have their own versions of talismans, such as the Nazar in Turkey, a blue eye-shaped amulet believed to fend off evil eye curses.
In ancient Egypt, scarab beetles were often used as talismans, symbolizing protection and the afterlife.

Psychology

Using talismans can create a placebo effect, where people feel more confident and safer simply by believing in the object’s power.
Psychological research suggests that when people carry a talisman, it can enhance their sense of control and reduce anxiety in stressful situations.

Literature

In literature, talismans often symbolize characters' quests for power or protection, frequently appearing in fantasy genres.
The concept of talismans is represented in many classic stories, such as J.K. Rowling's 'Harry Potter', where magical objects play key roles.

Pop Culture

Talismans have made their way into modern films and games, often depicted as powerful artifacts that grant abilities or enhance luck.
Movies like 'The Mummy' feature talismans, showcasing their connection to ancient beliefs and adventurers’ quests.

Origin of 'talisman'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Arabic 'tilsam', which means 'magic image' or 'sorcery'.
It entered the English language in the 16th century, evolving to refer broadly to objects believed to hold magical powers.

The word 'talisman' originated from the Arabic word 'tilasm,' which means 'completion' or 'religious rite.' Talismans have been used for centuries in various cultures as symbols of protection and good luck. The belief in the power of talismans stems from ancient superstitions and the desire for supernatural assistance in times of need.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,299, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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24296 saucy
24297 underlay
24298 racketeering
24299 talisman
24300 tad
24301 unutterable
24302 repressing
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Talisman Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations