knock on wood

Cultural  

1. Some people say, “Knock on wood,” and then knock on something made of wood for good luck, when they have made a remark that has been true up to that point and they want it to continue to be true: “I've never had an accident yet, knock on wood.”

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knock on wood Idioms  

1. Also, touch wood. Express a wish that something will or will not occur, as in This last round of treatment should have cured her, knock on wood. This expression alludes to an ancient superstition that literally knocking on or touching wood will ward off evil spirits. [c. 1900]

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The expression alludes to an ancient superstition that touching wood would ward off evil spirits.

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

knock on wood

"This has an opportunity - knock on wood - to be one of the best nights in the history of this city."

From BBC ● Jun. 14, 2026

We always want to knock on wood, because there’s a lot that nature can still throw at you before you get the fruit picked and shipped.

From Seattle Times ● May 22, 2023

“I’m feeling good, feeling healthy and, knock on wood, hopefully it stays that way.”

From Washington Times ● May 11, 2023

This is intended as optimism, but she hears it as ominous foreshadowing: “I immediately want to knock on wood and light some sage.”

From Washington Post ● Dec. 9, 2022

It takes away your immunity, makes you knock on wood and count your blessings the next time you hear a siren at night.

From "Bodega Dreams" by Ernesto Quinonez

Related Words

• anticipate
• assume
• believe
• cherish
• count on
• expect
• hold
• wish