knock on wood

English dictionary entry

Meanings

verb

To take a customary action to ward off some misfortune that is believed to be attracted by a presumptuous statement.

intj

Hopefully; a self-directive to undertake the customary action to ward off bad luck.

/ˌnɒk ɒn ˈwʊd/ /ˌnɑk ɑn ˈwʊd/ [ˌnäk än ˈwʊd] en-us-knock on wood.ogg /ˌnɑk ɔn ˈwʊd/ en-au-knock on wood.ogg

knock on wood knocks on wood knocking on wood knocked on wood

From a folk practice of unclear origin.

touch wood

burn bread

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