Abraxas \A*brax"as\, n. [A name adopted by the Egyptian Gnostic
Basilides, containing the Greek letters [alpha], [beta],
[rho], [alpha], [xi], [alpha], [sigma], which, as numerals,
amounted to 365. It was used to signify the supreme deity as
ruler of the 365 heavens of his system.]
A mystical word used as a charm and engraved on gems among
the ancients; also, a gem stone thus engraved.
[1913 Webster]