arcanum noun. [ɑ:'keɪnǝm] Pl. -na [-nǝ]. L16.
[Latin, use as noun of neut. sing. of arcanus: see ARCANE.]
Usu. in pl.
1. A hidden thing; a mystery, a profound secret. L16.
major arcana (in cartomancy) the 22 trump cards of the tarot pack. minor arcana (in cartomancy) the 56 suit cards of the tarot pack.

2. spec. Any of the supposed secrets of nature sought by alchemists; a marvellous remedy, an elixir. arch. E17.

■ arcanist noun a person who has knowledge of a secret process of manufacture E20.

[TahlilGaran] English Dictionary ▲