zinar

plural zinars

1. A necklace with amulets used ceremonially by Hindus.

   On each head the jewelled mor, Round each neck the proud zinar.

   1838, Elizabeth Stewart, Anáya, the prophetess of Méwar, London: Smith, Elder and Co., page iii

   2 more examples

   [A] young maid advanced towards us of ſuch exquiſite beauty and form, that a devotee of true faith would have worſhipped the divinities which beamed in the arched temples of her eyes, and wiſh to wear the zinar, if woven of her ambroſial hair.

   1769, Firishta, translated by Alexander Dow, Tales translated from the Persian of Inatulla of Delhi, volume I, Dublin: P. and W. Wilson et al., page vi

   When this ceremony is over, they burn incense, make an offering according to the circumstances of the parents, and, without consulting them, tie the zinar, or amulet, about the infant's neck, giving it a name according to their own fancy.

   1810, J. Goldsmith, A General View of the Manners, Customs and Curiosities of Nations, volume I, Philadelphia: Johnson and Warner, page 248

2. A sacred thread or cord worn by certain Hindus; a janeu or brahminical thread.