What does superstition mean?
Superstition names a belief or practice that is based on fear, luck, omens, or an imagined supernatural influence rather than rational evidence. People may describe breaking a mirror, opening an umbrella indoors, or encountering a black cat as superstitious acts, especially when such beliefs affect ordinary decisions. The word can also describe any strongly held but poorly examined assumption, such as a prejudice passed from one generation to the next. In everyday use, “superstition” usually implies that the belief is irrational, although scholars and historians may use it more neutrally when studying traditional practices without dismissing their cultural importance. Its name comes from Latin, where the associated words referred to standing by or surviving, reflecting the long history of practices intended to protect people from uncertain dangers.
nounA belief or set of practices based on ignorance of or disregard for natural laws, often involving fear of the unknown or a belief in luck, omens, or supernatural forces. The term can also refer more generally to an irrational or unreasoned belief that guides a person's actions.
- A belief or practice regarded as irrational and based on fear, luck, omens, or supposed supernatural influences.
- A traditional belief that is not supported by rational inquiry or systematic observation.
- An unreasoned attitude or prejudice that influences behaviour.
"The sailors refused to set sail until the superstition about a black cat crossing their path had been overcome."
"It is superstition to believe that walking beneath a ladder will bring bad luck."
"The superstition was passed down through generations, even as education made the older explanation less persuasive."
Use the plural when referring to multiple distinct beliefs or practices.
"Different superstitions have been associated with birthdays in cultures around the world."
Superstition began with the idea of “standing by” what remains after danger: its name traces to Latin words associated with surviving and witnessing.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does superstition come from?
The word comes from Latin superstitio, meaning a surviving, witnessing, or standing by, and ultimately from superstes, “survivor” or “witness,” with the root stare, “to stand.” In medieval usage, the term developed from the idea of something left standing or remaining after an event. It was later applied to beliefs and practices regarded as unreasonable or connected with omens.
Related word forms
How superstition is actually used
The word is generally neutral when identifying a traditional belief, but it can be dismissive when describing another person's religious or cultural practices. In careful writing, use it primarily for beliefs presented as irrational or unscientific.
Easily confused with superstition
A superstition is a belief or practice, whereas superstitious describes a person who believes in or acts according to such beliefs.