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superstition definition

su·per·sti·tion (so̵̅o̅′pər stis̸h′ən)

noun

  1. 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.
  2. any action or practice based on such a belief
  3. such beliefs collectively

Etymology: ME supersticion < MFr < L superstitio, excessive fear of the gods, superstition, orig., a standing still over < superstare, to stand over < super-, super- + stare, to stand

Webster's New World College Dictionary Copyright © 2005 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

superstition Synonyms

superstition

n.

false belief, notion, irrationality, fear, superstitious fear.


Webster's New World Roget's A-Z Thesaurus Copyright © 1999 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

superstition Usage Examples

Preposition: of

  • religion: What tho was to be the higher, rational philosophy or the superstitions of a popular religion?

Converse of object

  • connect: There are many strange superstitions connected with the Devil in Welsh folklore.

Adjective modifier

  • popish: His task was far from easy as Mary's tyranny and popish superstitions had left a dirty stain on the entire country.

Noun used with modifier

  • pagan: Professor Arnold rightly notes Thietmar's professional interest in condemning the pagan superstitions of his Slav neighbors.
superstition usage examples (more)

The word usage examples above have been gathered from various sources to reflect current and historical usage. They do not represent the opinions of YourDictionary.com.

superstition quotes

In all superstition wise men follow fools.

-Bacon, Francis,Viscount St Albans

There is a superstition in avoiding superstition.

-Bacon, Francis,Viscount St Albans

Freedom and not servitude is the cure of anarchy; as religion, and not atheism, is the true remedy for superstition.

-Burke, Edmund

superstition quotes (more)

Webster's New World Dictionary of Quotations Copyright © 2005 by Chambers Harrap Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved. Published by Wiley, Hoboken, NJ. Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

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"superstition." Webster's New World College Dictionary. 2009

  • Your Dictionary. 5 July 2009
  • <www.yourdictionary.com/superstition>

APA Style

superstition. (2009). In Webster's New World College Dictionary

  • Retrieved July 5th, 2009, from www.yourdictionary.com/superstition

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