Tāl'is-man, n.

(Synop., § 130), n.; pl. TĀL'IS-MANZ. [Fr. & Sp. talisman, It. talismano, from Ar. tilism, tilsam, a magical image, pl. talāsim, tilsamāt, from Gr. τέλεσμα, tribute, tax, Late Gr., an initiation, incantation, fr. τελεῖν, to perform, to pay tax, to initiate, especially in the mysteries.]

1Sense 1. A magical figure cut or engraved under certain superstitious observances of the configuration of the heavens, to which wonderful effects are ascribed; the seal, figure, character, or image, of a heavenly sign, constellation, or planet, engraven on a sympathetic stone, or on a metal corresponding to the star, in order to receive its influence.

2Sense 2. Hence, something that produces extraordinary effects, especially in averting or repelling evil; a charm; as, a talisman to destroy diseases. Swift.