талисма́н

noun, masculine, inanimate

Very rarely used word (top 20,000)

talisman, charm

Usage info

This word is used for an object believed to bring luck or protection. It is common in everyday language and can refer both to traditional or mystical objects and, more loosely, to any personal “lucky charm” (for example, something an athlete or student keeps for good luck).

In modern usage it often appears in sports and media to describe a person or object considered a symbol of success or good fortune for a team or group. The tone is neutral and not necessarily superstitious; speakers may use it figuratively without implying real belief in magic.

Typical contexts include talking about personal belongings, gifts, or symbolic mascots associated with good luck or protection.

Examples

У него есть таи́нственный талисма́н в фо́рме глаза.He has a mysterious talisman in the form of an eye.

У него есть зага́дочный талисма́н в фо́рме глаза.He has a mysterious talisman in the form of an eye.

Согласно ве́рованиям, талисма́н, кото́рый он но́сит, отгоня́ет злых ду́хов.The talisman he's wearing is supposed to ward off evil spirits.

Официа́льные талисма́ны игр в Сочи́ - Бе́лый ми́шка, За́йка, Леопа́рд и два инопланетя́нина по и́мени Снежи́нка и Лу́чик.The Sochi official mascots are The Polar Bear, The Hare, The Leopard and two aliens called The Snowflake and The Ray of Light.

Declension

	singular	plural
nom.nominative	талисма́н	талисма́ны
gen.genitive	талисма́на	талисма́нов
dat.dative	талисма́ну	талисма́нам
acc.accusative	талисма́н	талисма́ны
inst.instrumental	талисма́ном	талисма́нами
prep.prepositional	талисма́не	талисма́нах