superstition
soo-puh-STIH-shuhn
Superstition (noun) means a belief in supernatural forces or luck that isn't based on evidence or reason. Example: “It's just superstition, but he never travels on Friday the 13th.”
noun
1
A belief in supernatural forces or luck that isn't based on evidence or reason.
"It's just superstition, but he never travels on Friday the 13th."
"Many old sailing superstitions warned against whistling on a ship."
How to use superstition
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishAn irrational belief, often about luck, omens, or the supernatural.
Common mistake
Not the same as a religion or tradition in general — superstition specifically implies the belief lacks a rational basis.
Common pairings
a common superstition
out of superstition
old wives' superstition
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Word forms
- Plural
- superstitions
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
It's just _____, but he never travels on Friday the 13th.
Etymology
From Latin superstitio, from superstare ("to stand over/survive") + -tio; the sense shifted from "excessive religious awe" to irrational belief.
Synonyms
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superstitious notion
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for superstition
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for superstition →
Frequently asked questions
What does “superstition” mean?
The word “superstition” means a belief in supernatural forces or luck that isn't based on evidence or reason. In plain terms, an irrational belief, often about luck, omens, or the supernatural.
How do you pronounce “superstition”?
“Superstition” is pronounced soo-puh-STIH-shuhn (/ˌs(j)u.pɚˈstɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “superstition” in a sentence?
Here is “superstition” used in a sentence: “It's just superstition, but he never travels on Friday the 13th.”
What part of speech is “superstition”?
“Superstition” is a noun.
Where does the word “superstition” come from?
The word “superstition” comes from Latin. From Latin superstitio, from superstare ("to stand over/survive") + -tio; the sense shifted from "excessive religious awe" to irrational belief.
Is “superstition” a common word?
“Superstition” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
