Oxford English Dictionary / Lexicon of Mythological and Magical Symbols

• Abracadabra — A cabalistic word, magical formula, ancient incantation, or charm used historically by magicians, alchemists, and shamans as a protective amulet against illnesses or evil spirits, often written in a diminishing triangular shape; (in a modern, figurative sense) meaningless talk, completely unintelligible speech, confused text, obscure jargon, or a chaotic mixture of words lacking internal logic.