Superstition: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
January 6, 2026

1. Superstition (noun): A belief or practice resulting from ignorance, fear of the unknown, or a misunderstanding of cause and effect.
2. Superstition (noun): An irrational belief in supernatural influences, omens, or magical consequences.
3. Superstition (noun): A traditional but unfounded belief, often passed down through generations.

"Superstition" refers to beliefs or customs that are not based on reason or scientific knowledge but rather on cultural traditions or irrational fears. These beliefs often involve omens, charms, or rituals meant to influence fate or avoid bad luck. Superstitions exist in many cultures, from black cats bringing misfortune to knocking on wood for good luck.

"Superstition" Definition: What Does "Superstition" Mean?

The term "superstition" refers to beliefs or actions stemming from irrational fears or magical thinking.

Definition of "Superstition": Belief in the Supernatural

"Superstition" describes a belief in supernatural forces, where unrelated events are linked to good or bad luck.

Definition of "Superstition": Irrational Fear-Based Practice

A "superstition" is an irrational ritual or behavior performed to bring good fortune or prevent misfortune.

Parts of Speech

"Superstition" is primarily a noun, referring to the beliefs or customs associated with irrational or supernatural thinking. While it is mostly used as a noun, it can also appear in adjective form as "superstitious," describing someone who adheres to superstitions.

How to Pronounce "Superstition"?

The word "superstition" is pronounced as "soo-per-STISH-uhn". It has four syllables, with the emphasis placed on the third syllable. The first part, "soo", sounds like the word "suit" without the 't'. The second syllable, "per", rhymes with "her". The third syllable, "stish", sounds like "fish" but with an "st" sound at the beginning. The final syllable, "uhn", is a softer, unstressed sound similar to "un" in "button." When saying "superstition," ensure the stress is placed on the "STISH" part while keeping the other syllables smooth and connected.

Phonetic Pronunciation: /ˌsuː.pɚˈstɪʃ.ən/

Synonyms of "Superstition": Other Ways to Say "Superstition"

Common synonyms for "superstition" include:

  • Myth
  • Folk belief
  • Delusion
  • Magic
  • Witchcraft
  • Phobia
  • Tradition
  • Ritual
  • Misconception
  • Occultism

Antonyms of "Superstition": Other Ways to Say "Superstition"

Common antonyms for "superstition" include:

  • Fact
  • Science
  • Reality
  • Rationality
  • Knowledge
  • Truth
  • Evidence
  • Logic
  • Wisdom
  • Enlightenment

Examples of "Superstition" in a Sentence

"Superstition" appears in various contexts, from everyday conversations to literature and cultural discussions.

Below are ten examples of how "superstition" can be used in a sentence:

  1. Many people follow the superstition that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck.
  2. He refused to walk under the ladder, believing in the superstition associated with it.
  3. Some athletes follow strict pre-game rituals based on superstition.
  4. The superstition about black cats crossing your path is common in Western cultures.
  5. Her grandmother always followed the superstition of throwing salt over her shoulder for good luck.
  6. Superstition led them to avoid scheduling their wedding on Friday the 13th.
  7. The sailor’s superstition made him fear setting sail on a Tuesday.
  8. In some cultures, whistling indoors is considered a bad superstition.
  9. She didn't believe in superstition but still avoided stepping on cracks in the sidewalk.
  10. The village was full of superstition, with many believing in spirits and curses.

Frequency of Use

The word "superstition" is frequently used in literature, folklore, and everyday conversations to describe irrational beliefs. It appears in historical texts, discussions about culture, and psychological studies exploring the origins of irrational fears.

Variants of "Superstition"

There are several variants of the word "superstition," each used in slightly different contexts.

Below are some examples: 

  1. Superstitious: Adjective form describing a person who believes in superstitions.
  2. Superstitiously: Adverb describing the manner in which superstitions are followed.
  3. Superstitions: Plural form of "superstition," referring to multiple beliefs or practices.

Related Terms to "Superstition"

Several words and concepts are closely related to "superstition," either because they describe similar beliefs, cultural traditions, or supernatural ideas.

Below are some related terms to "superstition": 

  1. Omen
  2. Ritual
  3. Folklore
  4. Paranormal
  5. Fortune
  6. Belief
  7. Hex
  8. Charm
  9. Curse
  10. Astrology

Etymology: History and Origins of "Superstition"

"Superstition" comes from the Latin word "superstitio," which originally meant “a standing over in awe or dread” and referred to excessive fear of the gods. It entered English through Old French "superstition" in the 14th century. Early uses often had a religious tone, especially in writings that warned against idolatry or false practices. Over the years, it has taken on a broader meaning, covering any irrational or magical belief, whether sacred or secular.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Superstition"

The word "superstition" has given rise to several derivatives and compound words that describe related beliefs, behaviors, and attitudes.

Below are some common derivatives and compounds of "superstition," along with their definitions:

  1. Anti-superstition: A noun referring to a belief or movement that opposes superstitions.
  2. Superstition-based: An adjective describing something that originates from or is influenced by superstitions.
  3. Superstition-driven: An adjective used to describe actions or decisions motivated by superstitious beliefs.
  4. Superstition-influenced: An adjective referring to thoughts or behaviors shaped by superstitions.

Common Misspellings of "Superstition"

Here are a few common misspellings:

1. Supertition
2. Supperstition
3. Superstiton
4. Superstishun
5. Superstitionn

10 Idioms Similar to "Superstition"

Idioms related to "superstition" often reference luck, fate, or beliefs in supernatural forces.

Below are ten idioms that relate to "superstition":

1. Knock on wood
2. Break a leg
3. Fingers crossed
4. Bad luck comes in threes
5. See a penny, pick it up
6. Step on a crack, break your mother’s back
7. Lucky rabbit’s foot
8. Find a four-leaf clover
9. Spill salt and toss it over your shoulder
10. Opening an umbrella indoors brings bad luck

10 Common Questions About "Superstition"

Many people have questions about the meaning and implications of "superstition."

Below are ten common questions and their answers:

1. What is the most common "superstition"?

One of the most common "superstitions" is the belief that breaking a mirror results in seven years of bad luck.

2. Why do people believe in "superstitions"?

People believe in "superstitions" due to cultural traditions, fear of the unknown, or personal experiences.

3. Are "superstitions" different across cultures?

Yes, different cultures have unique "superstitions" based on historical beliefs and traditions.

4. What are the origins of "superstitions"?

Many "superstitions" originate from ancient religious beliefs, myths, and folklore.

5. Can "superstitions" impact behavior?

Yes, some people change their actions or decisions due to "superstitions", avoiding certain numbers, objects, or dates.

6. Are "superstitions" harmful?

While most "superstitions" are harmless, some can cause anxiety or influence decisions in an irrational way.

7. What is an example of a lucky "superstition"?

A common lucky "superstition" is carrying a rabbit’s foot or finding a four-leaf clover for good fortune.

8. How do "superstitions" relate to religion?

Some "superstitions" stem from religious beliefs, while others exist independently as folklore and cultural traditions.

9. Do educated people believe in "superstitions"?

Yes, even highly educated individuals may hold "superstitions", often as cultural habits or personal traditions.

10. How can someone stop believing in "superstitions"?

Understanding the logical or scientific explanations behind events can help reduce belief in "superstitions".

Conclusion

The word "superstition" refers to a belief or practice that stems from irrational fears or supernatural thinking. Superstitions influence cultures worldwide, shaping traditions and behaviors. Understanding them can help distinguish myth from reality while appreciating their historical significance.

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