noun pl. talismans -·mans

1. something, as a ring or stone, bearing engraved figures or symbols thought to bring good luck, keep away evil, etc.; amulet
2. anything thought to have magic power; a charm

Etymology: Fr < Ar ṭilasm, magic figure, horoscope < MGr telesma, consecrated object (hence, one with power to avert evil) < LGr, religious rite < Gr telein, to initiate, orig., to complete < telos, an end: see telo-