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Katie Beirne Fallon and Shaun Donovan knocking on wood in the Oval Office (2015). Knocking on wood (also phrased touching wood or touch wood) is an apotropaic tradition of literally touching, tapping, or knocking on wood, or merely stating that one is doing or intending to do so, in order to avoid "tempting fate" after making a favorable prediction or boast, or a declaration concerning one's ...
There are many theories as to the origin of Toi toi toi as an idiom. In folklore it was used to ward off a spell or hex, often accompanied by knocking on wood or spitting. One origin theory sees "toi toi toi" as the onomatopoeic rendition of spitting three times, a common practice in many parts of the world to ward off evil spirits.
Knocking on wood: This age-old superstition is believed to prevent bad luck or jinxes. If you say something hopeful, knock on wood to "seal the deal" and keep good fortune on your side.
The exact origin of this expression is unknown, ... often accompanied by knocking on wood. One explanation sees "toi toi toi" as the onomatopoeic rendition of ...
Knocking on wood: This age-old superstition is believed to prevent bad luck or jinxes. If you say something hopeful, knock on wood to "seal the deal" and keep good fortune on your side.
Superstitions can be culturally informed, the publication also notes, ranging from the evil eye amulets thought to ward off evil in countries like Turkey to the American notion that wishing on a ...
Apotropaic observances may also be practiced out of superstition or out of tradition, as in good luck charms (perhaps some token on a charm bracelet), amulets, or gestures such as crossed fingers or knocking on wood. Many different objects and charms were used for protection throughout history.
Here's the history behind why people are superstitious about the day. Friday the 13th is considered by many to be an unlucky day. Here's the history behind why people are superstitious about the ...