Definition of phylacterynext
as in amulet
something worn or kept to bring good luck or keep away evil he wore a small phylactery on a cord around his neck

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of phylactery Under the chin was the amulet, also known as a phylactery, likely worn around the person's neck. Max Hauptman, USA TODAY, 18 Dec. 2024 Known as a phylactery, this type of amulet served as a kind of container to hold objects believed to be imbued with magical properties that were intended to protect the wearer. Tim Ryan, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024 Popular images of Jewish men worshiping at the wall in prayer shawls and phylacteries show only a small stretch of the ancient retaining wall for the Temple Mount. David M. Halbfinger, New York Times, 30 Oct. 2017
Recent Examples of Synonyms for phylactery
Noun
  • The text also suggests wearing amulets that bring blessings and aid the transference of consciousness.
    Jue Liang, The Conversation, 12 Mar. 2026
  • My friend keeps the amulet for protection and leaves the rest of the kit for burning.
    Jennifer Pak, NPR, 11 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • He was not only named Fan of the Game, but he was shown on the videoboard several times during the rest of the game, igniting a huge ovation every time and establishing himself as the team’s new talisman.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 18 Mar. 2026
  • Luke Bosher Harry Kane (Bayern Munich and England) England’s talisman is at the peak of his powers and putting together another historic season in Germany.
    The Athletic Staff, New York Times, 3 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Phylactery.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/phylactery. Accessed 3 Apr. 2026.

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