superstition

American  

[soo-per-stish-uhn] / ˌsu pərˈstɪʃ ən /

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.

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superstition British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of superstition

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

Example Sentences

They added that they would organise programmes in rural areas to raise awareness against superstitions.

From BBC

Lindo starts rapping on the wood table separating us and doesn’t stop until I ask if he’s a man given to superstition.

From Los Angeles Times

According to superstition, each animal has its animal friends and its animal enemies.

From Los Angeles Times

While thoroughly grounded in training and technique as a world champion athlete, there is also superstition and a little bit of music sprinkled in the mix.

From BBC

Even after Mr. Newman has done his best to demystify the creative life, he may not convince everyone to reject their rituals and superstitions.

From The Wall Street Journal