dispellats

Dispellats are fictional artifacts or devices designed to neutralize or remove magical effects such as wards, curses, or enchantments. In speculative fiction and role-playing games, they function as tools to break the influence of hostile magic or to cleanse a space of supernatural influence.

The term dispellats is a modern coinage, formed from the English verb dispell and an -ats plural sigil used in fantasy lexicons. It carries a deliberately archaic or Latinized flavor to convey relic-like or ceremonial objects.

In fantasy literature, games, and worldbuilding, dispellats come in multiple forms. Some are handheld talismans that emit counter-spells when activated; others are installed within locations to dampen incoming magic. They are often portrayed as limited by charge, ritual prerequisites, or susceptibility to anti-ward defenses.

Common mechanics include direct nullification of magic within a radius, temporary severing of enchantments, or reflection of spells back toward their caster. Limitations may include cooldown periods, energy costs, vulnerability to certain spell types, or the need for compatible sigils or materials.

Outside fiction, dispellats do not correspond to a real-world concept; the term is used primarily in fantasy writing and game design to describe anti-magic devices and similar mechanisms.

Related concepts include counterspells, wards, anti-magic devices, and cleansing rituals used to remove curses or enchantments in imaginary settings.