superstition

[soo-per-stish-uhn]

noun

1. a belief or notion, not based on reason or knowledge, in or of the ominous significance of a particular thing, circumstance, occurrence, proceeding, or the like.

2. a system or collection of such beliefs.

3. a custom or act based on such a belief.

4. irrational fear of what is unknown or mysterious, especially in connection with religion.

5. any blindly accepted belief or notion.

superstition

/ ˌsuːpəˈstɪʃən /

noun

1. irrational belief usually founded on ignorance or fear and characterized by obsessive reverence for omens, charms, etc

2. a notion, act or ritual that derives from such belief

3. any irrational belief, esp with regard to the unknown

Word History and Origins

Origin of superstition¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Latin superstitiōn-, stem of superstitiō, from superstit-, stem of superstes “standing beyond, outliving” (from super- super- + -stes, combining form of stāre “to stand”) + -iō -ion

Word History and Origins

Origin of superstition¹

C15: from Latin superstitiō dread of the supernatural, from superstāre to stand still by something (as in amazement)

Example Sentences

He went on to express the superstitions some officers have about tackling rogue herbalists: "I will not go and provoke situations. I know that they have their own powers that are beyond my knowledge."

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“Nonsense; that is mere superstition. There have been many competent lady sailors, and even notorious lady pirates. Not that being a pirate is anything to brag about.”

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Among them is avoiding seaweed soup for lunch, as its slippery strands are believed to make students "slip" in the high-stakes test -- a superstition that has long shaped test-day menus.

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Commercialization of spiritual themes walks a fine line, and companies that lean too heavily on superstition may face scrutiny.

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Dodgers fans from Los Angeles as well as supporters from across the U.S. share their lucky rituals and superstitions they believe propel the team to victory.

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