The English language may have borrowed talisman from French, Spanish, or Italian; all three include similar-looking words for a lucky charm that derive from an Arabic word for a charm, ṭilsam. Ṭilsam traces to ancient Greek telein, which means "to initiate into the mysteries."
a pendant of white nephrite jade is often worn by Indians as a talisman to ward off heart disease
Recent Examples on the WebNot that any of these practicalities make the heartbreak for Leeds United fans at losing their talisman any less painful. Zak Garner-purkis, Forbes, 26 June 2022 For now, a talisman — a bouquet of willow branches, a symbol of survival — is visible beneath the windshield. Rick Noack And Sandra Mehl, Anchorage Daily News, 13 May 2022 By featuring 'Running Up That Hill' in such a positive light — as a talisman for Max (one of the main female characters) — the song has been brought into the emotional arena of her story. Sydney Bucksbaum, EW.com, 20 June 2022 It’s written and drawn by one central character, and gets passed down to others like a cultural talisman. Bob Verini, Variety, 13 June 2022 The chest-puffing point guard is the talisman for this team, an ultimate believer in himself who never backs down from anyone or any challenge. Globe Staff, BostonGlobe.com, 14 May 2022 For now, a talisman — a bouquet of willow branches, a symbol of survival — is visible beneath the windshield. Rick Noack And Sandra Mehl, Anchorage Daily News, 13 May 2022 Ben Stokes, England’s talisman, is almost surely set to be be named his country’s new Test captain. Tristan Lavalette, Forbes, 24 Apr. 2022 For now, a talisman — a bouquet of willow branches, a symbol of survival — is visible beneath the windshield. Rick Noack And Sandra Mehl, Anchorage Daily News, 13 May 2022 See More
Word History
Etymology
French talisman or Spanish talismán or Italian talismano; all from Arabic ṭilsam, from Middle Greek telesma, from Greek, consecration, from telein to initiate into the mysteries, complete, from telos end — more at telos