Definition of talisman in English:

nountalismans

• 1An object, typically an inscribed ring or stone, that is thought to have magic powers and to bring good luck.

  ‘those rings, so fresh and gleaming, were their talismans’

  ‘a dolphin talisman would ensure a safe journey on land or at sea’

  More example sentences

  • ‘I wouldn't say that I performed any rituals, per se, but I was on the lookout for talismans, good luck charms - I was big on minerals, and took to wearing jewelry.’
  • ‘The psychological aspects of healing through the use of rituals, prayers, charms and talismans represent another aspect of traditional herbal shamanism.’
  • ‘Songstones were placed along the borders of the villages of the songweavers, and their strange powers made them effective talismans for warding off danger.’
  • ‘Poppies and fruit are indeterminate symbols with a practical purpose, mysterious talismans with the power to ward off subsequent suffering.’
  • ‘Tattooed crosses, icons and parts of the Sacred Land are all talismans and amulets which are treasured with respect.’
  • ‘The book is a magical talisman, and it remains to be seen whether the luck it brings is good or bad.’
  • ‘Lucky charms, amulets, and talismans have been found in virtually all civilizations throughout recorded history.’
  • ‘While on his quest for the 12 talismans, Jackie discovers that each one has unique mystical powers, which are bestowed upon its holder.’
  • ‘The Danes have left Wessex, and have set up in Lundenwic, and have sworn on their most sacred talismans to leave us.’
  • ‘A section on healing focused on charms, talismans and rituals of herbal medicine.’
  • ‘Making a face, Ethan dug into his jacket pockets, producing an astounding array of charms, talismans, herbs, and potions in corked test-tubes.’
  • ‘Members of the Banu Sa'd al-Din, a prominent Sufi family in Damascus, made talismans and charms which could reportedly heal the sick and cure the insane.’
  • ‘The shop Goya on Calle Jimenez sells toad talismans, owl feathers, stone amulets, candles, gems, and soaps.’
  • ‘The door was shut and sealed with charms and talismans to keep away evil spirits or in this case, those who might want to steal the elemental gem inside.’
  • ‘And there was to end of talismans, charms and spells that could be purchased from the local wise woman or apothecary.’
  • ‘Everything from pentacles and talismans to cloaks and incense can be found here at very reasonable prices!’
  • ‘To defend themselves, people turned to the usual battery of magical charms and talismans.’
  • ‘Animal figures are talismans that endow the wearer with the animal's power and prowess.’
  • ‘He appeared before Portsmouth Magistrates yesterday dressed in a green robe, blue cloak and with talismans around his neck.’
  • ‘Dressed in purple robes, he cast a spell invoking the elements of earth, air, water and fire and threw a talisman into the murky loch.’

  Synonyms

  lucky charm, charm, fetish, amulet, mascot, totem, idol, juju, phylactery

  View synonyms

  1. 1.1A person regarded as representing and inspiring a particular group.
     ‘he's a quiet man off the field, but on it he's our talisman’