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.
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'
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.