talisman

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   an object believed to provide magical protection, good luck, health, or power

   She carried the carved stone as a talisman against misfortune.

2. 2
   noun

   a person or thing regarded as bringing success, confidence, or beneficial influence

   The veteran goalkeeper became a talisman for the young team.

Borrowed through French talisman from Arabic tilsam, ultimately from Byzantine Greek telesma, "religious rite, consecrated object, completion." The Greek noun is related to telein, "to complete or perform a rite," and telos, "end or fulfillment."

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