Jinx Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฎ
jinx
[dสษชลks ]
Definitions
bad luck
A person or thing that brings bad luck, especially one that is believed to cause bad things to happen.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| jinx |
Repeated twice in error, use the explanation provided above for 'jinx'.
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| curse |
Typically used when referring to a strong, often supernatural, spell or spoken wish for bad luck or misfortune.
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| hex |
Usually associated with magic, referring to a spell or charm designed to bring bad luck or misfortune, often with a slightly mysterious or occult connotation.
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| hoodoo |
Less commonly used, usually refers to an object or practice linked to folk magic traditions believed to bring bad luck or protection.
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Examples of usage
- She felt like a jinx, bringing bad luck wherever she went.
- Don't say that, you'll jinx it!
bring bad luck
To bring bad luck or cause something to go wrong.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| jinx |
Used informally to indicate bad luck or when someone believes they've caused or will cause bad luck to come to another person or situation.
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| curse |
Refers to a spell or prayer that is believed to bring harm or misfortune to someone. It can also be used figuratively to describe something that causes ongoing trouble or bad luck.
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| hex |
Usually refers to a spell cast to bring bad luck or misfortune, often associated with witchcraft or magical rituals.
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| hoodoo |
Used to describe folk magic traditions, particularly those influenced by African, Native American, and European practices. It can also mean bringing bad luck or a bad spell.
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Examples of usage
- She was afraid she would jinx the project by talking about it too soon.
- Don't jinx us by saying it's going to be an easy game.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Popular Culture
- The phrase 'jinx' is frequently heard in movies and TV shows, often used humorously when characters experience sudden bad luck.
- In the game of 'jinx' or 'pinky jinx', players try to say the same word and the first one to call 'jinx' canโt speak until someone says their name.
- The Marvel comic book character 'Jinx' has the ability to cause bad luck for her enemies, showcasing the word's tie to supernatural themes.
Psychology
- The belief in 'jinxing' can be connected to psychological concepts like superstition, where people think their words or actions can influence events.
- Research indicates that superstitions like 'jinx' can serve as coping mechanisms, helping individuals manage anxiety about the unknown.
- The phenomenon of self-fulfilling prophecies is relevant; if someone believes they're 'jinxed', they may act in ways that lead to failure.
Literature
- In literature, characters often use charms or spells that are akin to jinxing to explore themes of fate and destiny.
- Shakespeareโs works sometimes reference luck and misfortune, paralleling the concept of a 'jinx' in human behavior.
- Mystical tales like 'The Jinx' explore the consequences of bringing about bad fortune, merging folklore with narrative arcs.
Folklore
- In various cultures, the act of jinxing is tied to folklore about witchcraft and spells, portraying it as a way to cast bad luck on others.
- Traditionally, some rituals aimed to reverse a jinx involved using protective amulets or charms to ward off negative energy.
- Stories of jinxes often caution against actions that tempt fate, reinforcing societal norms around behavior and luck.
Origin of 'jinx'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'jinx' is believed to come from 'Jynx', a Greek term associated with a spell or charm to bring bad luck.
- In the early 20th century, 'jinx' came to be used more widely in American English to describe someone or something that brings misfortune.
- The term was popularized in the 1930s by American sports culture, especially during games where players would blame a 'jinx' for their losses.
The word 'jinx' originated in the early 20th century in American English. It is believed to have come from the name of a character in a comic strip called 'Alley Oop', where the character Jinx Malloy was considered unlucky. Over time, the term 'jinx' has come to be widely used to refer to a person or thing that brings bad luck.
See also: jinxed.