apotropaion

[ap-uh-troh-pey-shuhn]

apotropaion Definition

an object or ritual that is believed to have the power to avert evil or bad luck.

Using apotropaion: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "apotropaion" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The ancient Greeks used apotropaia to ward off evil spirits.

  • Example

    Some people wear a lucky charm as an apotropaion.

  • Example

    The horseshoe over the door was considered an apotropaic symbol.

Phrases with apotropaion

  • a curse or legend believed to be cast by a malevolent glare, usually given to a person when they are unaware

    Example

    She wore an amulet to protect herself from the evil eye.

  • to prevent something harmful from affecting you

    Example

    He took vitamin C to ward off colds.

  • a belief or practice resulting from ignorance, fear of the unknown, or trust in magic or chance

    Example

    Many people believe that breaking a mirror brings bad luck, but it's just a superstition.

Origins of apotropaion

from Greek 'apotropaios', meaning 'averting evil'

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Summary: apotropaion in Brief

'Apotropaion' [ap-uh-troh-pey-shuhn] refers to an object or ritual believed to have the power to avert evil or bad luck. Examples include lucky charms, horseshoes, and other symbols used to ward off evil spirits. The concept of 'evil eye' is related to apotropaia, and superstitions often arise from beliefs in such protective objects or practices.