gris-gris

1 9.9

A small object worn to protect someone or bring good luck

noun
/ˈɡrɪsˌɡri/

: gris-gris

Examples

Then somebody put the gris-gris on him.

Fiction book (1997)
That is some strong gris-gris.

Blog text (20)
They also make charms like the gris-gris of Africa that protect or can be used to gain something that is desired.

Academic text (1991)
He wore a gris-gris around his neck, believing it would protect him from harm.
The old woman carried a gris-gris in her pocket to bring her good luck during the market.
During the ceremony, everyone received their gris-gris, hoping for blessings and protection.

Synonyms

good luck charm

vsgris-gris

2 3.0

A small thing people keep because they believe it brings good luck

is culturally specific and refers to African and Caribbean amulets

grigri

vsgris-gris

1 9.9

An object from West Africa worn to protect against harm or bring good luck

is broader and covers both African and Caribbean amulet traditions

greegree

vsgris-gris

Literature

9.9

A small object people wear for protection or good luck

is used across African and Caribbean cultures for similar amulets

Surface Forms

gris-gris singular

gris-gris plural

Etymology

The word gris-gris comes from a West African word like grigri, and it reached English through French. A gris-gris is a small 'charm' or 'amulet' people wear or carry for 'protection' or 'good luck', so the origin explains why it means a protective object.