pentacle









pentacle


noun

  1. pentagram.
  2. a similar figure, as a hexagram.

noun

  1. another name for pentagram

n.1590s, from Medieval Latin pentaculum “pentagram,” a hybrid coined from Greek pente “five” (see five) + Latin -culum, diminutive (or instrumental) suffix. OED notes other similar words: Italian had pentacolo “anything with five points,” and French pentacle (16c.) was the name of something used in necromancy, perhaps a five-branched candlestick; French had pentacol “amulet worn around the neck” (14c.), from pend- “to hang” + a “to” + col “neck.” The same figure as a pentagram, except in magical usage, where it has been extended to other symbols of power, including a six-point star. Related: Pentacular.

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