knock on wood

/nɒk ɒn wʊd/◆idiom

to avoid jinxing good luck

I've had a great week so far, knock on wood.

The speaker expresses hope that their good luck continues.

◆ What It Really Means

To avoid tempting fate or jinxing good luck.

¶ Literal Meaning

To physically knock on a wooden surface.

Literal Breakdown

knockto strike or tap+onin contact with+woodthe material from trees

◇ Mental Image

The mental image of someone physically knocking on wood to ward off bad luck or tempt fate.

◈ When to Use

A person might say 'I've been feeling great lately, knock on wood' to express hope that their good health continues.

◉ Cultural Note

This idiom is widely used in English-speaking cultures and is often accompanied by the physical action of knocking on wood. It reflects a belief in avoiding tempting fate or jinxing good luck.

informal

To say or do something to avoid tempting fate or jinxing good luck.

She said she'd pass the exam, knock on wood.

She hopes her good luck continues and she passes.

We're doing great in the tournament, knock on wood.

The team hopes their success isn't jinxed.

Often used when acknowledging good fortune or expressing hope.

Synonyms

touch wood cross fingers

Related Phrases

touch woodidiom

same as 'knock on wood'

cross fingersidiom

to hope for good luck

Pro Tip

Usage Tip

This phrase is often used when acknowledging good luck or expressing hope, especially in casual conversation.

Gold Rule

Superstition Rule

The phrase is rooted in superstition and is used to avoid tempting fate or jinxing good luck.

Word Origin

Originates from ancient superstitions about spirits residing in trees. Knocking on wood was believed to summon protective spirits or avoid tempting fate.

Usage Notes

Common in informal speech, especially when discussing good fortune or expressing hope. Often accompanied by physically knocking on a wooden surface.

English Dictionary

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