What does superstitious mean?
Superstitious describes a person, belief, or practice that depends on omens, luck, supernatural forces, or other ideas that are not supported by rational inquiry or reliable evidence. A superstitious person may avoid certain places or actions, attach significance to coincidences, or use charms and rituals to protect against misfortune. The word commonly conveys skepticism and a suggestion that the behavior is irrational, although it can be used neutrally when discussing traditional customs or cultural beliefs. In everyday speech, “superstitious” often implies that someone allows fear, habit, or an unexplained sign to override better judgment. It is related to the noun “superstition” and the adverb “superstitiously,” and it remains a familiar and useful term for describing the influence of unverifiable beliefs on conduct.
adjectiveBelieving in or acting according to supernatural powers, omens, luck, or other beliefs that cannot be explained by reason or evidence. The word can also describe practices or ideas based on such beliefs.
- Given to beliefs and practices based on omens, luck, or supernatural forces rather than rational or evidential reasoning.
- Based on or characterized by such beliefs and practices.
"Her decision not to travel on Friday was entirely superstitious."
"He was superstitious about walking under ladders."
"The building's design reflects a number of superstitious customs."
Calling someone superstitious often says less about what they believe than about the way their beliefs outsmart evidence.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does superstitious come from?
The word comes from the Latin adjective superstitiosus, meaning “of or relating to superstition,” which was derived from superstitio, a term connected with standing on or observing omens. English borrowed the adjective through French, where superstitieux was used in a similar sense. The Latin root also underlies the English noun “superstition,” while related forms such as “superstitiousness” continue the same word family.
Related word forms
How superstitious is actually used
The term can be neutral when describing cultural or historical practices, but it is often mildly critical when applied to a person's reasoning. In British and American English it is generally understood without regional distinction.
Easily confused with superstitious
Superstitious describes belief in omens, luck, or supernatural forces, whereas suspicious describes distrust or the belief that something may be wrong or harmful.