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superstition

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Superstition is a belief based on fear or ignorance and not on the laws of science. (noun)

An example of superstition is thinking it's bad luck to walk under a ladder.

See superstition in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

any belief, based on fear or ignorance, that is inconsistent with the known laws of science or with what is generally considered in the particular society as true and rational; esp., such a belief in charms, omens, the supernatural, etc.
any action or practice based on such a belief
such beliefs collectively

See superstition in American Heritage Dictionary 4

su·per·sti·tion

noun

An irrational belief that an object, action, or circumstance not logically related to a course of events influences its outcome.
a. A belief, practice, or rite irrationally maintained by ignorance of the laws of nature or by faith in magic or chance.
b. A fearful or abject state of mind resulting from such ignorance or irrationality.
c. Idolatry.

Origin: Middle English supersticion, from Old French superstition, from Latin superstitiō, superstitiōn-, from superstes, superstit-, standing over; see stā- in Indo-European roots.

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