'amulet-like' originates from English, formed by combining the noun 'amulet' and the adjectival suffix '-like'. 'amulet' comes from Late Latin 'amuletum' via Old French 'amulette', where the Latin term referred to an object believed to protect against harm; the suffix '-like' ultimately derives from Old English 'līc' meaning 'body' or 'having the nature of'.

'amulet' changed from Late Latin 'amuletum' to Old French 'amulette' and eventually became the modern English word 'amulet'; the compound 'amulet-like' was later created in English by adding the productive suffix '-like' to denote resemblance or function.

Initially, 'amulet' meant 'an object worn or carried to ward off evil or harm'; over time it retained that protective sense, and 'amulet-like' now means 'resembling or serving the protective (or lucky) function of an amulet.'