[Idiom] KNOCK ON WOOD. - Why Say Knock on Wood? Understand This Superstition

To prevent bad luck.

Knock on wood" is a superstition that involves physically knocking on wood, or a wood-like substance, to ward off bad luck or prevent a good situation from turning bad. This tradition likely has origins in ancient cultures that venerated trees, believing that spirits and gods resided within them.

Example Sentences

1. I knock on wood for good luck.

   I hope for good luck by making this gesture.

2. He aced the test, knock on wood it will continue.

   He hopes his good performance continues.

3. She mentioned her good health, then quickly knocked on wood to avoid jinxing it.

   She quickly made a gesture to avoid jinxing her statement about good health.