superstition

[ˌsuːpərˈstɪʃən]

superstition Definition

excessively credulous belief in and reverence for supernatural beings or natural phenomena, thought to bring good luck or bad luck.

Using superstition: Examples

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

• Example

  Some people believe that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck, but it's just a superstition.

• Example

  He refused to fly on Friday the 13th because of his superstitions.

• Example

  In some cultures, black cats are considered a sign of good luck, while in others they are seen as a superstition.

• Example

  Many athletes have their own superstitions, such as wearing the same socks for every game.

superstition Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for superstition

• myth
• legend
• lore
• belief
• magic

Antonyms for superstition

• science
• fact

Idioms Using superstition

• break a leg

  a phrase used to wish someone good luck, especially before a performance or presentation

  Example

  Break a leg at your audition tomorrow!

• cross your fingers

  to make a gesture by crossing one's index and middle fingers in order to hope for good luck or to show support

  Example

  I'm crossing my fingers that I get the job.

• wish upon a star

  to make a wish for good luck or success, often by looking at a star in the sky

  Example

  She closed her eyes and wished upon a star for her dream to come true.

Phrases with superstition

• old wives' tale

  a traditional belief or story that is often untrue or unscientific

  Example

  It's just an old wives' tale that you will catch a cold if you go outside with wet hair.

• knock on wood

  to touch or tap on something made of wood, such as a table or door, to avoid tempting fate or to express hope for good luck

  Example

  I haven't been sick all year, knock on wood!

• lucky charm

  an object that is believed to bring good luck

  Example

  She always carries a lucky charm with her to important events.

Origins of superstition

from Latin 'superstitio', meaning 'excessive fear of the gods'

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Summary: superstition in Brief

The term 'superstition' [ˌsuːpərˈstɪʃən] refers to excessive belief in supernatural beings or natural phenomena bringing good or bad luck. Examples include avoiding walking under ladders or breaking mirrors. The phrase 'old wives' tale' refers to traditional beliefs that are often untrue, while 'knock on wood' is a gesture to avoid tempting fate. 'Superstition' is often used in idioms like 'break a leg' and 'cross your fingers,' which express hope for good luck.