Superstition: meaning, definitions and examples
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superstition
[ ˌsuːpərˈstɪʃən ]
belief system
Superstition refers to a widely held but irrational belief in supernatural influences, especially as leading to good or bad luck. It often involves the perception that certain actions, objects, or events can bring about positive or negative outcomes. Superstitions can vary significantly between cultures and may include rituals, charms, and taboos. Common examples include the fear of the number 13 or the belief that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck.
Synonyms
delusion, folklore, magical thinking, myth, witchcraft
Examples of usage
- Many people have superstitions about Friday the 13th.
- She carries a lucky rabbit's foot as a superstition.
- Superstitions often influence people's decisions and behaviors.
- His superstition prevented him from walking under ladders.
Translations
Translations of the word "superstition" in other languages:
🇵🇹 superstição
🇮🇳 अंधविश्वास
🇩🇪 Aberglaube
🇮🇩 superstisi
🇺🇦 забобон
🇵🇱 zabobon
🇯🇵 迷信 (みしん)
🇫🇷 superstition
🇪🇸 superstición
🇹🇷 batıl inanç
🇰🇷 미신
🇸🇦 خرافة
🇨🇿 pověra
🇸🇰 povesť
🇨🇳 迷信 (míxìn)
🇸🇮 prepričanje
🇮🇸 galdur
🇰🇿 суеверие
🇬🇪 წარმოდგენები
🇦🇿 xurafə
🇲🇽 superstición
Etymology
The term 'superstition' comes from the Latin word 'superstitio', which means 'to stand over' or 'to stand in awe.' This word originally referred to the practices of old religions and rituals that were thought to be irrational and unfounded. In ancient times, superstitions were often intertwined with religious beliefs, as many rituals were performed to appease gods or spirits believed to influence daily life. Over the centuries, some superstitions became deeply rooted in cultural practices and beliefs, often passed down through generations. The meaning of superstition evolved to encompass beliefs that lacked empirical evidence and were viewed as projects of human fears or hopes. This evolution reflects a broader trend where logical explanations and scientific understanding began to challenge and debunk many traditional superstitious beliefs. Despite this, superstitions remain prevalent in contemporary society, highlighting the tension between reason and belief.