superstition

noun

su·​per·​sti·​tion ˌsü-pər-ˈsti-shən 

1

a

: a belief or practice resulting from ignorance, fear of the unknown, trust in magic or chance, or a false conception of causation

b

: an irrational abject attitude of mind toward the supernatural, nature, or God resulting from superstition

2

: a notion maintained despite evidence to the contrary

Examples of superstition in a Sentence

It is a common superstition that a black cat crossing your path is bad luck.

tales of superstition, witchcraft, and magic

Recent Examples on the Web

This superstition often causes the fielding team to avoid saying the words no-hitter or perfect game and often leaves the pitcher isolated in the dugout. — Tushaar Kuthiala, Encyclopedia Britannica, 3 Sep. 2026

The accessory has become a superstition for fans believing that the purse — which has since sold out on the Woods by Jordyn website — was partly responsible for bringing the New York City team to the NBA Finals and its first win in over 50 years. — Catherine Santino, PEOPLE, 28 Aug. 2026

For some brides, cultural superstitions add yet another complicated layer to the nuptial-planning process. — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 24 Aug. 2026

Also on Friday, Becker was one of nine competitors featured in a People magazine story about superstitions and pre-pageant rituals. — Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 21 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English supersticion, from Anglo-French, from Latin superstition-, superstitio, from superstit-, superstes standing over (as witness or survivor), from super- + stare to stand — more at stand

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for superstition

• abolition
• acquisition
• admonition
• ammunition
• apparition
• apposition
• coalition
• competition
• composition
• definition
• deglutition
• demolition

Kids Definition

superstition

noun

su·​per·​sti·​tion ˌsü-pər-ˈstish-ən 

1

: a belief or practice resulting from ignorance, fear of the unknown, or trust in magic

2

: an unreasoning fear of nature, the unknown, or God resulting from superstition