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

And as we progress, knock on wood, we’ll learn about his life before his family — his wife and child.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 31, 2024

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

From Washington Times ● May 11, 2023

“These guys really heeded the warnings and listened to what we were saying and took to coaching. We’ve taken great care of the ball, knock on wood, down the stretch.”

From Seattle Times ● Mar. 16, 2023

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