Superstitious describes a belief or feeling that comes from superstitionA belief or practice based on luck, omens, or magic, not facts. rather than reason or evidence. It is often used for people, habits, or fears connected with magic, luck, omensSigns thought to predict future events, often good or bad., or irrationalNot based on clear thought, logic, or good reasons. beliefs.
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: accurate. Checked: 2026-11-02. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
Pronunciation
AI-generated pronunciation audio (OpenAI).
Accent: General American English
IPA: /ˌsuːpərˈstɪʃəs/
Easy pronunciation: soo-per-STISH-uhs (approximate spelling).
Stress: Primary stress on the third syllable; secondary stress on the first syllable.
Adjective meaning based on superstition rather than facts.
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: uncertain — manual review needed. Checked: 2026-11-02. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
Superstitious Meaning
based on superstition rather than facts
Part of speech: adjective
Definition: showing belief in magic, luck, or signs that are not based on reason or science
Example: He refused to walk under the ladder because he was superstitious.
Synonyms for this meaning:
- irrational — Can fit in some contexts, but it is broader and not always about superstition specifically.
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: accurate. Checked: 2026-11-02. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
Superstitious Synonyms
Similar Meaning
- irrational
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: accurate. Checked: 2026-11-02. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing superstitious with religious or spiritual. Superstitious usually means believing in luck, magic, or omens in an irrational way.
- Using it to mean simply cautious or careful. That is not what the word means.
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: accurate. Checked: 2026-11-02. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does superstitious mean?
Superstitious means believing in luck, magic, or omens in a way that is not based on reason or evidence.
Is superstitious a negative word?
Often, yes. It usually suggests that a belief is irrational or not scientifically supported.
What is a simple synonym for superstitious?
A close simple synonym is irrational, though it is broader and not an exact match in every context.
Reviewed with OpenAI Decisions. Assessment: accurate. Checked: 2026-11-02. AI assessment; not a guarantee of accuracy.
