List of 100 Superstitions From Around the World: Good or Bad Luck!

Have you ever thought about why some people think the number 13 is unlucky while others actually like it? Or how whistling indoors could lead to bad luck in certain places?

Well, these unnatural beliefs are called superstitions. They usually originate from old stories, historical events, and shared experiences of the public. They might work like minor warning signals or just comfort one and even change the daily behavior of people. ^{3, 4, 8}

In this blog, we look at 100 various superstitions that many people from different parts of the world believe in. Whether you like to learn about the origins or would like to enrich yourself with some fascinating facts, this list will give you an idea of how differently people view luck and misfortune.

Table of Contents hide

1 Why Do People Believe in Superstitions?

2 100 Strange Superstitions from Across The World

3 Final Thoughts

Why Do People Believe in Superstitions?

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People basically follow superstitions because of a range of emotional and environmentally learned motives. Under any strained circumstance or uncertainty, superstitions provide an opportunity for control or solace.

For example, a talisman that someone carries around during some stressful period may serve to offer a sense of security to that individual. Indeed, research shows that belief in superstitions tends to be higher when events are especially bad.^{1, 6}

But the most influential factor in such beliefs is usually cultural traditions. By and large, superstitious beliefs are passed down through generations, much like family recipes or customs. In other cultures, there is a meaning assigned to specific numbers or specific actions, like in Chinese culture where the number four is avoided because it is quite similar in pronunciation to the word for death.. ^{2, 6}

Other superstitious behaviors-like knocking on wood or tossing salt over the shoulder-can be psychologically comforting, too. These actions will give people extra confidence in their decisions and make them feel more secure. ^{1, 6}

Similarly, one can’t refute the factor of social circles. In this case, the fact that your friends or family are into certain superstitions may make you become the believer too-almost join ‘a private club’. After all, nobody wants to be the odd one out whenever everybody else thinks that breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck. ^{5, 7}

100 Strange Superstitions from Across The World

Here are 100 common superstitions around the world that people believe.

1. Breaking a mirror brings seven years of bad luck.

This is such a common superstition, but its origin dates back to ancient Rome. In those days, it was believed that not only does a mirror reflect one’s appearance, but also his soul. That one will have seven years’ bad luck because of breaking a mirror has its very vital roots in the thought that damage to the mirror may similarly affect the soul. The number seven is important because Romans believed it took seven years for life to renew itself; therefore, the consequences of breaking a mirror appear to be long. ^{9, 10}

2. Walking under a ladder brings bad luck.

This superstition is associated with the triangular shape formed when a ladder leans against a wall, considered sacred by ancient Egyptians. It was deemed that passing through the triangle cuts up the sanctity of the shape, thus attracting bad luck. To this effect, even in modern times, many people avoid passing under ladders, not only because of safety concerns but also due to acquiring bad luck. ¹¹

3. Black cats crossing your path is a sign of bad luck.

Black cats have become associated with witches in many Western cultures and, indeed, this reaches back into the Middle Ages. There is a superstition that if a black cat crosses your path, you will experience bad luck. This comes out of fear that these animals were somehow affiliated with dark magic. As much as this belief still holds, black cats today are often thought of simply as pets with an unfortunate historical association. ¹²

4. Spilling salt brings bad luck unless you throw it over your left shoulder.

This is one of those legends that date back to when salt was a pricey product. Spilling salt was considered very wasteful, and if someone were to spill it, he or she has to toss a pinch over his or her left shoulder. Doing this would suppose to blind the devil who always stood at an individual’s back, waiting for such a moment to make him or her experience his ill-luck. 13

5. Horseshoes above a doorway bring good luck.

Hanging a horseshoe above a doorway reportedly protects the home from evil spirits. Shared between Europe and North America, many people hang it upside down while others believe that in this manner it “catches” good fortune. The horseshoe is associated with good fortune since it was manufactured from iron, a metal believed previously to ward off evil spirits. ¹⁴

6. Knocking on wood wards off bad luck.

This knocking on wood tradition began in ancient times when people believed that in trees, spirits reside. By knocking on wood, a person wanted to invoke those spirits for protection or to avoid bad luck afterwards when some good events had been spoken about.! ¹⁵

7. Opening an umbrella indoors brings bad luck.

Opening an umbrella indoors is believed to break the balance in the house and brings ill luck. The belief probably arose on a practical basis: large umbrellas opened inside can cause injury in small areas or knock things over. ¹⁶

8. Friday the 13th is an unlucky day.

Friday the 13th is considered by many Western cultures to be an unlucky day, and the number 13 was thought to be a bad luck number. This fear may have a connection with the Last Supper, which had 13 guests, and some tragic events like the arrest of the Knights Templar on Friday, October 13, 1307. ¹⁷

9. A rabbit’s foot is a lucky charm.

The carrying of a rabbit’s foot is supposed to bring good luck, especially in North America. That might come from the fact that the ancient Celtic tribes considered rabbits an animal that contained magic because of their strong ties with the earth. A rabbit’s foot was a token of that magic. ¹⁸

10. Breaking a wishbone brings good luck to the one who gets the bigger piece.

This tradition of breaking a wishbone originally derived from the ancient Rome. Because people believed that birds have prophetic powers, the tradition of breaking the two parts of a bone taken from a bird’s skeleton was considered a way to make their wishes come true. The one who gets the larger piece will have his or her wish granted. ¹⁹

11. Crossing your fingers brings good luck.

This is a standard gesture in the West to invoke good luck. The origin is arguably from Early Christianity, visualizing the cross for protection against evil. People cross their fingers so that everything will fall in place in an appropriate manner or ward off bad luck. ²⁰

12. Finding a four-leaf clover is a sign of good luck.

In most cultures and especially Irish, the act of finding a four-leaf clover is believed to be a rare incident of good luck. Each clover leaf might represent faith, hope and love, the remaining one being for luck and therefore all good and positive, and hence blest.

13. Saying “bless you” when someone sneezes protects their soul.

The saying “bless you” after someone sneezes originated with the bubonic plague, wherein sneezing was an omen that one would soon take ill. It was a protective phrase, a way of asking God to intervene on behalf of the person’s health.

14. Itching palms indicate money is coming your way.

Itching palms, according to a number of cultures, signify that money is coming into or out of your pocket. In particular, if your right palm is itching, a good omen, since it presages new money coming into your life; whereas an itchy left palm, on the other hand, suggests money will be spent or otherwise lost.

15. Throwing coins in a fountain brings wishes or good fortune.

The origin of this custom dates back to ancient times, when water was believed to be the gift of life given to people, and for this, many gods and spirits were associated with it. People used to toss coins into a well or a fountain in order for good luck to smile at them, or a wish to get granted.

16. The evil eye brings bad luck if cast upon you.

This is a very deeply rooted belief in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern countries. That is, with a jealous glance-one that is malevolent in nature-a person may invoke misfortune or harm on another. Many people wear an amulet to ward off the evil eye, including the blue “nazar”.

17. Stepping on a crack in the sidewalk will break your mother’s back.

This rhyme is a lighthearted superstition that kids will often say as a portent while making sure to avoid the cracks in the sidewalk. While this is done in jest, it’s also reflective of the long-standing human tendency to link physical actions with possible consequences, even in trivial situations.

18. A bird flying into your house is a sign of death.

Many Western cultures view a bird flying into one’s house as an omen of death. This may be rooted in ancient symbolism depicting birds, particularly black ones, as envoys or carriers from the spirit world.

19. Opening scissors without cutting brings bad luck.

Some people believe that opening scissors for no reason at all will invite bad luck. This probably deals with a practical way to avoid accidents with sharp objects by making sure one does not take a pair of scissors unless there is a need for them.

20. Sweeping someone’s feet means they’ll never get married.

Some cultures believe that if someone has swept your feet, you will never get married. Probably rooted from the association of cleanliness to domestic success, wherein the sweeping motion is symbolic of sweeping good fortune away.

21. Wearing a red string bracelet wards off evil.

Wearing a red string bracelet is deeply rooted in customs from Jewish mysticism and Kabbalah. It protects the wearer from any harm. The color red wards off evil spirits while, on the other hand, this bracelet protects against some negative energies.

22. Seeing a shooting star brings good luck.

Making a wish upon a shooting star is a convention in most cultures; this is because the view of a star at such rare occasions and very briefly, is considered special for the individual, and involves direct contact with the universe. Such a unique, short-lived event, it is believed, can engender positive acts.

23. Carrying a lucky penny brings good fortune.

Finding a penny and carrying it with oneself is a very prevailing belief in most Western cultures. Even the saying goes, “find a penny, pick it up and all day long you’ll have good luck”; it only shows that even the tiniest thing like a penny can bring in a bit of good fortune into a person’s life.

24. A broken clock brings bad luck.

Some cultures view a broken clock as a sign of bad luck since it is a signal that time has come to a standstill. This perhaps arises from the fact that time should flow without intermission for life to take its due course, and a broken clock upsets that natural course.

25. A crow cawing near you brings bad luck.

In many Western cultures, crows are believed to be bad luck in general, but particularly if they caw anywhere near a person. This is most likely due to the fact that crows are scavengers and are thus associated with death and the afterlife in folklore.

26. Hearing an owl hoot brings bad luck.

Owls have always been regarded as carriers of bad luck by various cultures. The hooting of an owl, especially at night, is believed to usher ill luck or even death into one’s life. This may be due to the fact that owls are nocturnal birds and their call is somewhat eerie.

27. An itchy nose means someone is thinking about you.

This is light-hearted and implies that when your nose itches, people are either thinking about or talking about you. It’s the light-hearted interpretation of something which happens quite normally and is very commonly spoken when socializing.

28. Putting shoes on the table brings bad luck.

Placing shoes on a table is considered by many cultures to be an omen of bad luck. This probably has its origins in the practical fact that shoes can bring dirt and germs inside within a sterile area. Eventually, this practical concern took on a superstitious belief about misfortune in the home.

29. Tossing rice at weddings brings prosperity and fertility.

Tossing rice at weddings is a tradition believed to bring good fortune and fertility to the couple getting married. Rice is a symbol of plenty and growing; therefore, showering rice upon the bride and groom brings all one’s best wishes for a fruitful, happy life together.

30. Giving knives as a gift will sever a friendship unless you give a coin with it.

Giving knives as gifts can be a real friendship tester unless you throw in a coin. This belief pops up in several Western cultures. Imagine your friend hands you a shiny knife for your birthday. You might feel like they’re saying, “Happy birthday, but I might cut our friendship in half!” To avoid that awkward situation, they should give you a coin along with the knife, turning the gift into a playful transaction instead. Talk about a sharp way to keep the friendship intact!

31. Hanging a dreamcatcher over your bed catches bad dreams.

Hanging a dreamcatcher over your bed is a cool tradition that comes from Native American culture. People believe that dreamcatchers can catch bad dreams and let only the good ones through. Imagine it like a filter for your sleep! You hang it up, and voilà, all the creepy nightmares are gone, leaving you with sweet dreams of puppies and ice cream.

32. Dropping a knife means company is coming.

Dropping a knife is thought to mean that someone is coming to visit you, especially in Western cultures. It’s like the universe sent you a little message! Just be careful—if you drop two knives, it might mean you’ll have a surprise party instead. Who doesn’t love a good surprise, right? But maybe keep the knives off the counter if you don’t want unexpected guests!

33. Crossing paths with a funeral procession brings bad luck.

Crossing paths with a funeral procession is believed to bring bad luck in Western cultures. Imagine walking down the street and accidentally bumping into a sad parade—yikes! This superstition might make you want to avoid those processions altogether, or at least cross the street and pretend to be fascinated by your shoelaces. Let’s face it, nobody wants a string of bad luck following them home!

34. A ringing in the ear means someone is talking about you.

Have you ever experienced a ringing in your ear? According to Western beliefs, that means someone is talking about you! It’s like having a secret fan club that you didn’t even know about. Of course, it could just be your eardrum acting up, but wouldn’t it be fun to think someone is gossiping about how awesome you are? Just remember, if you hear ringing, maybe check your popularity status!

35. Wearing clothes inside out wards off evil spirits.

Wearing clothes inside out is believed to ward off evil spirits in various cultures. Imagine putting on a shirt and turning it inside out on purpose—talk about a fashion statement! Not only do you get to be a trendsetter, but you also might just keep those pesky spirits at bay. Who knew that battling evil could be as easy as flipping your wardrobe? Plus, it gives you a fun story to share with friends!

36. Seeing a rainbow is a sign of good luck.

Seeing a rainbow is a sign of good luck in many cultures around the world. Imagine chasing rainbows like a leprechaun looking for gold! In places like Ireland, people believe that spotting a rainbow can bring you great fortune. So, if you spot one, maybe it’s time to buy a lottery ticket. Who knows?

37. Breaking a clock is a bad omen.

Breaking a clock is considered a bad omen in Chinese culture. It’s like the clock is saying, “Time’s up!” for good luck. In fact, many people believe that if you break a clock, it’s a sign that something unfortunate might happen soon. So, if you drop your favorite clock, maybe it’s time to be extra cautious!

38. Bird droppings landing on you brings good luck.

Bird droppings landing on you is seen as a stroke of good luck in Russia. Yes, you read that right! If a bird decides your head is the perfect target, it means you might hit the jackpot soon. Just think of it this way—birds can be pretty messy, but at least they bring some good vibes with their “gifts.”

39. Whistling indoors invites misfortune.

Whistling indoors can invite misfortune, especially in Russian culture. It’s as if you’re calling upon bad luck to come and join the party. So, if you’re in a room full of people, and someone starts whistling, maybe it’s time to suggest a different tune or change the subject quickly!

40. Giving yellow flowers is a sign of infidelity.

Giving yellow flowers is a sign of infidelity in Russian culture. Imagine gifting someone a bouquet of sunny yellow blooms, and instead of smiles, you get a shocked face! It’s like sending a message saying, “I have a secret!” So, if you’re thinking about gifting flowers, maybe stick to classic reds or pinks to avoid any awkward conversations.

41. A rooster crowing at night brings bad luck.

A rooster crowing at night is believed to bring bad luck in many cultures around the world. Imagine trying to catch some Z’s, and suddenly a rooster starts yelling like it’s morning. Not only does it wake you up, but some folks think it’s a sign that something bad might happen soon. So, if you hear one crowing after dark, you might want to double-check if your homework is done or if you’ve left the fridge open!

42. Hiccups mean someone is talking about you.

Hiccups have a funny reputation as a sign that someone is talking about you. Think about it: every time you get a case of the hiccups, you might just want to look around and see if someone is whispering your name. It’s a little like having a secret fan club that makes you jumpy every time they mention you. Next time you hiccup, maybe wave at a friend—who knows, they might be the one gossiping!

43. Avoid sweeping at night to prevent bad luck.

In Chinese culture, there’s a belief that you should avoid sweeping at night to keep bad luck away. Picture this: you’re tidying up after dinner, and your broom becomes a bad luck magnet after dark! The idea is that sweeping at night could sweep away good fortune, kind of like throwing away your birthday cake when you’re not looking. So, if you want to keep your luck intact, maybe let the crumbs hang around until sunrise!

44. An itchy ear means someone is gossiping about you.

An itchy ear is thought to mean someone is gossiping about you, especially in Western cultures. It’s like your ear is a secret gossip hotline, letting you know that someone is spilling the tea about you. Imagine scratching your ear and then hearing “Did you hear what they said about her?” It’s like your body is giving you a heads-up that you might want to check your social media for some juicy updates!

45. Dropping chopsticks means bad luck or a family argument.

In Chinese culture, dropping chopsticks is considered a sign of bad luck or a possible family argument. It’s almost like your chopsticks are staging a mini-drama right there at the dinner table! If you happen to drop them, it might be wise to brace yourself for some family chatter or at least a playful debate over who gets the last dumpling. Remember, if they hit the floor, maybe it’s time to pass the peas instead of the chopsticks!

46. Cutting your nails at night invites evil spirits.

Cutting your nails at night is a big no-no in Japanese culture. People believe that doing this can invite evil spirits into your life. Imagine a fuzzy, mischievous spirit showing up just because you wanted to tidy up your nails! So, if you ever find yourself in Japan, you might want to save your manicure for the daylight hours.

47. A bat flying into your house brings misfortune.

In Western cultures, if a bat flies into your house, it’s not a sign that you should start a petting zoo. Instead, people think it brings misfortune. Think about it: a bat zooming past you isn’t exactly what you’d want to see when you’re snuggling on the couch. If you spot one, it might be time to check your luck or, at the very least, keep the windows shut!

48. Whistling at night invites ghosts.

Now, in Eastern European countries, whistling at night is seen as a ticket to ghost town! Many believe that this action can invite ghosts to join your late-night party, and honestly, who wants to hang out with a ghost when you could be binge-watching your favorite show? So, put those fingers away and save your tunes for daytime!

49. Avoid clipping nails on Tuesdays to prevent bad luck.

In Nepal and India, there’s a quirky belief that clipping your nails on Tuesdays can lead to bad luck. Who knew a simple grooming habit could be so powerful? Picture someone trying to tidy up but ending up dodging bad luck instead. If you’ve got Tuesday nail care on your to-do list, maybe consider moving it to another day!

50. Seeing a spider in the morning brings bad luck.

Spotting a spider in the morning is thought to bring bad luck across many cultures worldwide. It’s like having an uninvited guest start your day off on a spooky note. Imagine waking up to find a little eight-legged friend waiting for you! You might want to check if your luck takes a dip right after breakfast.

51. A broom falling over means visitors are coming.

A broom falling over is a fun little superstition in many Western cultures. People believe that this means visitors are on their way. Imagine if every time you dropped a broom, your friends magically appeared at your door! It’s like the broom is saying, “Surprise! Get ready for a party!”

52. Twitching eyes indicates something significant is going to happen.

In Chinese and Hindu cultures, if you notice someone’s eyes twitching (or, own eye twitching), it’s believed that something significant is about to happen. This could be anything from a surprise visit from a friend to winning the lottery! It’s a bit like your eyes have a secret superpower, letting you know when something exciting is coming your way.

53. A ladybug landing on you brings good luck.

Have you ever had a ladybug land on you? In many Western cultures, this little bug is a symbol of good luck. People often say that if a ladybug chooses you as its landing pad, it’s a sign that good things are on the horizon. Plus, who doesn’t want a cute little insect to bring them some positive vibes?

54. A white butterfly in the house is a sign of death.

Now, here’s a serious one: in Chinese culture, seeing a white butterfly in your house is often associated with death. It sounds a bit spooky, right? But it’s just one of those beliefs that remind us how different cultures interpret signs. It’s like an unwanted guest that you can’t kick out!

55. Breaking an egg with two yolks is a sign of impending pregnancy.

Breaking an egg with two yolks in it is considered a sign of impending pregnancy in many Western cultures. It’s a little weird, but people think it’s a good omen for new beginnings. Just imagine cracking an egg and thinking, “Whoa, am I going to be a parent soon?” Talk about a breakfast surprise!

56. Wearing an opal when it isn’t your birthstone brings bad luck.

If you wear an opal and it’s not your birthstone, many Western cultures believe it brings bad luck. It’s like the opal is saying, “Hey, I’m not your friend!” So, while opals are super pretty, wearing one when it’s not your special stone might make you feel a bit cursed. Better safe than sorry, right?

57. A spoon falling predicts a female visitor.

A spoon falling is a quirky little belief that suggests you might have a female visitor coming your way. This superstition originates from Western cultures, where people think that if a spoon drops, it’s a sign that a lady is about to knock on your door. Imagine that! You could be just chilling at home, and suddenly your spoon decides to take a dive, all because it wants to let you know a female guest is on her way.

58. Seeing a funeral procession is bad luck unless you touch a button.

Now, if you happen to see a funeral procession, don’t panic! In some Western cultures, this sight is considered bad luck. But hold on—there’s a catch! If you touch a button on your clothing or even your nose, you can turn that bad luck into good luck. Imagine touching your nose and thinking, “Okay, I’m in the clear!” It’s like a little magic trick you can perform when spotting something spooky.

59. Cutting your hair on a new moon brings faster growth.

Have you ever thought about how cutting your hair on a new moon could be beneficial? In many cultures around the globe, this practice is believed to promote faster hair growth. So, if you want your hair to grow like a weed, grab those scissors during a new moon! Just picture yourself with super long locks in no time, all thanks to some lunar magic. You could even start a trend—“New Moon Haircuts, Anyone?”

60. Spilling wine brings good luck if you dab it behind your ears.

Spilling wine might seem like a disaster at a dinner party, but in Italian culture, it’s actually considered a stroke of good luck! The secret is to dab some of that spilled wine behind your ears. It sounds a bit silly, right? But just think about it: you could be the life of the party with your good fortune while also smelling like a vineyard. Who wouldn’t want that?

61. A picture falling from the wall predicts a death.

Let’s talk about a picture falling from the wall. In Western cultures, this is often seen as a sign predicting death. Yikes! Just imagine if your favorite family photo decides to tumble down—everyone in the room might hold their breath. But don’t fret; at least you’ll have a good story to tell later! “Oh, that photo? Yeah, it fell, and everyone thought something spooky was going to happen!”

62. Sneezing three times means a wish will come true.

In the West, there’s a funny little superstition about sneezing three times. People often say that if you sneeze three times in a row, it means your wish is about to come true! It’s kind of like a magical sneeze! So, if you find yourself sneezing away, don’t forget to make a wish between those sneezes. Just try to cover your nose, or you might end up wishing for a new box of tissues!

63. Seeing a dog howling at night is a bad omen.

Seeing a dog howling at night is a classic bad omen that can be found in many cultures around the world. Imagine walking home at night and hearing a dog howling like it’s auditioning for a musical. Spooky, right? People often think that it signals something bad is coming your way. So, if you hear howling, maybe it’s time to turn around and grab a snack instead—who knows, that might just be the better luck charm!

64. Turning a loaf of bread upside down brings bad luck.

In France, there’s a quirky belief about turning a loaf of bread upside down. If you do this, you might just be inviting bad luck. Picture yourself at a picnic, and someone accidentally flips the bread over. Suddenly, you have to explain to everyone why the picnic vibe just turned sour! It’s definitely a good idea to keep that bread right side up, unless you’re looking for an excuse to eat more croissants instead!

65. Eating 12 grapes at midnight on New Year’s Eve brings good luck.

Now, let’s talk about eating 12 grapes at midnight on New Year’s Eve, a fun tradition in Spain. At the stroke of midnight, Spaniards pop one grape for each chime of the clock. If you manage to eat all 12 grapes in time, good luck is supposed to follow you all year! Just imagine trying to chew those grapes while everyone is counting down! It’s a hilarious race against time, but hey, if it means a lucky year ahead, let’s grape it!

66. Leaving your shoes upside down invites bad luck.

Leaving your shoes upside down is considered bad luck in Brazil. Imagine walking into someone’s house and spotting their shoes all flipped over! It sounds a bit silly, but Brazilians believe that it can cause bad luck for the person who owns those shoes. Maybe they think the shoes are plotting some mischief!

67. Carrying an acorn brings longevity.

In Norse culture, carrying an acorn is believed to bring longevity. Imagine walking around with a tiny acorn in your pocket! It’s like carrying a little piece of magic that promises you’ll have a long life. Plus, who wouldn’t want to be as old as a wise old tree?

68. Kissing under mistletoe brings good fortune.

Kissing under mistletoe is a fun tradition in Western cultures, especially around Christmas. When you find yourself standing under that leafy stuff, you better pucker up! It’s said to bring good fortune, but it also makes for some awkward moments at family gatherings. Can you imagine your grandma trying to sneak a kiss?

69. Pouring tea into an empty cup brings bad luck.

According to Russian beliefs, pouring tea into an empty cup can invite bad luck. Picture this: you’re excited for tea time, but you pour your tea into a cup that’s totally empty. It’s like a recipe for disaster! They say it’s better to fill up the cup first to keep the bad vibes away.

70. Seeing two magpies brings good luck, but one brings bad luck.

In Britain, seeing two magpies is a sign of good luck, while spotting just one is bad news. It’s like a feathery game of good and bad! If you see a lone magpie, you might want to tip your hat and offer it a friendly wave—just in case it’s feeling a bit grumpy and wants to mess with your day.

71. A bee entering your house is a sign of good luck.

In Western traditions, if a bee enters your house, it’s a sign of good luck. Think about it: a bee buzzing in your home means that something good is on its way! Just remember to keep the windows open because you don’t want to end up with a bee party in your living room—unless you like buzzing guests!

72. Dropping a fork predicts a male visitor.

Dropping a fork is considered a sign that a male visitor is on the way, especially in Western cultures. Imagine you’re having dinner, and suddenly, your fork goes clattering to the floor. Instead of just saying, “Oops!”, you can now announce with glee that a guest is arriving! It’s like a dinner bell, but with forks instead.

73. Sleeping with your feet facing the door brings death.

Now, in Chinese culture, sleeping with your feet facing the door is thought to bring death. This might sound a bit creepy, but it’s based on the idea that it’s how deceased people are carried out. If you ever find yourself in a situation where feet are facing the door, maybe just flip around for a better night’s sleep. Your dreams will thank you!

74. Cutting your nails on a Sunday brings bad luck.

In the Western world, cutting your nails on a Sunday is believed to bring bad luck. You could be sitting there with your clippers, feeling like a nail artist, only to realize you’re potentially signing up for a week of misfortune. The best advice? Save that nail care for another day. Nobody wants to trip over a curb because they snipped their nails on a Sunday!

75. A cricket on the hearth brings good luck.

On the brighter side, a cricket on the hearth is thought to bring good luck, particularly in Chinese culture. Imagine a little cricket happily chirping away as it sets up camp by your fireplace. Not only does it make for a cute roommate, but it’s also a symbol of prosperity. Just remember not to scare it away; you want all the luck you can get!

76. Crossing your eyes could cause them to stay that way.

There’s the quirky belief about crossing your eyes. In Western cultures, it’s said that if you cross your eyes for too long, they might stay that way forever. While this sounds like something from a scary movie, it’s mostly a funny warning. So, if you’re feeling silly and want to make a funny face, go ahead—but don’t blame me if your eyes get a little stuck!

77. Hanging lemon and 7 green chilies for good luck.

In Nepal and India, people believe in a goddess named Alakshmi who is all about bad luck. Imagine her as the grumpy ghost that shows up when you least want her to! To keep her from causing trouble, shop owners hang a lemon and seven green chilies at their doors. Why lemon and chilies? Because she loves sour and spicy things, and this way, she might just munch on her favorite snack and skip out without bothering anyone!

78. Pointing at a rainbow brings bad luck.

Pointing at a rainbow can stir up some bad luck, especially in Hawaiian culture. Imagine spotting a beautiful rainbow after a rainstorm, and in your excitement, you point at it. Uh-oh! Some believe that this could anger the spirits of the rainbow. So, next time you see one, maybe keep your fingers to yourself and just enjoy the view!

79. Bells ringing on a wedding day ward off evil spirits.

Bells ringing on a wedding day serve a special purpose in Western traditions. They are believed to ward off evil spirits that might crash the wedding. Imagine a wedding where everyone is happily dancing, and suddenly bells start ringing. It’s like having your very own superhero protecting the couple from any unwanted guests. Ring-a-ding-ding, keep those spirits away!

80. A knife falling means a male visitor is coming.

A knife falling is thought to signal that a male visitor is on the way in Western cultures. Picture yourself at home, happily chatting with your friends, and then, clang! A knife drops to the floor. Instead of stressing out about cleaning up, you can get excited and say, “Guess a guy is coming over!” It’s like the kitchen is trying to play matchmaker!

81. Touching a dead body brings bad luck.

Touching a dead body is believed to bring bad luck in various cultures. Imagine walking through a spooky graveyard and accidentally bumping into a tombstone. Yikes! In many places, people think that physical contact with a dead body could attract negative energy or spirits. It’s a bit like trying to pet a cat that’s had a really rough day—best to keep your distance!

82. A moth flying into a light brings bad luck.

A moth flying into a light is considered a bad omen in Western cultures. Picture this: you’re having a cozy night at home, and suddenly a moth zooms into your lamp like it’s auditioning for a superhero movie. People often believe that this little creature is bringing misfortune, as if it’s a messenger from a less-than-happy realm. Maybe the moth just really loves bright lights, but we like to think it’s got a secret mission!

83. Seeing a single crow brings sorrow, while two bring joy.

Seeing a single crow can bring sorrow, while spotting two can bring joy in British folklore. It’s like a game: one crow equals a sad day, but two mean it’s time to celebrate! Crows are often seen as symbols of mystery and intelligence, so spotting one might make you wonder if it’s plotting something. But if you see two, maybe they’re just there to throw a party—maybe with snacks!

84. A black butterfly is a sign of death.

In the Philippines, a black butterfly is thought to be a sign of death. Imagine strolling through a garden and a black butterfly flutters by, and you think, “What a lovely creature!” But wait, it might be telling you something spooky! It’s like a little messenger that makes you pause and wonder if it’s time to check the fridge for snacks instead (definitely better than thinking about death!).

85. The number 4 is unlucky because it sounds like “death” in Chinese.

The number 4 is considered unlucky in Chinese culture because it sounds like the word for death. It’s a bit like having a secret code that makes everyone a little nervous. Imagine if every time you saw the number 4, it was like a ghost jumping out at you! Because of this, some people skip the number entirely—like avoiding a really weird movie that you know will give you nightmares.

86. The number 13 is unlucky.

The number 13 has a pretty bad reputation in many cultures, especially in the West. People think it’s unlucky, and it’s all tied to some interesting stories. For example, at the Last Supper, there were 12 apostles, and the 13th was Judas, the guy who betrayed Jesus. Not exactly a glowing endorsement for the number, right?

Then there’s the Norse myth where Loki crashes a party as the 13th guest and causes all sorts of trouble. Talk about being a party pooper!

In everyday life, this fear of 13 pops up in funny ways. Buildings often skip the 13th floor, jumping straight to 14, which makes you wonder if it’s really that bad! Some airlines even avoid row 13—it’s like they’re saying, “No Thanks, bad luck!”

87. Putting your purse on the floor brings poverty.

Putting your purse on the floor is said to bring poverty, and this belief pops up in various cultures. Imagine placing your purse on the floor and suddenly feeling broke; that would be a bummer, right? In many places, it’s thought that if you don’t keep your purse off the ground, you might end up attracting financial troubles. It’s like your money is sliding right out of your bag!

88. Finding a spider in your home brings good fortune.

Finding a spider in your home is often seen as a sign of good fortune in several cultures. Picture this: you’re cleaning your room, and out comes a spider doing a little dance. Instead of screaming and running away, maybe you should consider inviting good luck into your life! This belief is rooted in various traditions, where these eight-legged creatures are seen as tiny luck-bringers that might just drop some good vibes your way.

89. Spilling water before an important event brings good luck.

Spilling water before an important event brings good luck, especially in Balkan cultures. Now, what kind of luck do you get from a spilled drink, you ask? Well, it’s like a little mini celebration for your upcoming event! So, if you accidentally knock over a glass before a big game or performance, think of it as a sign that you’re about to shine. Just be careful not to slip on that water!

90. Burning sage wards off evil spirits.

Burning sage is a traditional practice that wards off evil spirits, especially in Native American cultures. Imagine having a tiny smoke cloud following you around, chasing away all the bad vibes. It’s kind of like sending a message to those pesky spirits that they’re not welcome here! Plus, your place will smell pretty nice, too—who wouldn’t want a fresh-scented home free from bad energy?

91. Carrying a garlic clove protects you from the evil eye.

Carrying a garlic clove is believed to protect you from the evil eye, especially in Mediterranean cultures. Garlic is not just for cooking; it’s like your personal bodyguard against negative energy! Think of it as wearing a charm that says, “Back off, bad luck!” And hey, you might even keep some vampires away while you’re at it—bonus!

92. Breaking noodles brings bad luck.

Breaking noodles is considered to bring bad luck in Chinese culture. Picture this: you’re making a delicious bowl of noodles, and someone accidentally snaps them in half—uh-oh! According to tradition, that might mean no happiness in your future meals. But don’t worry too much; you can always enjoy the flavor of the noodles, even if they’re a little short!

93. Wishing on the first star you see brings good luck.

Wishing on the first star you see is a fun tradition in many Western cultures. Picture this: you’re outside at night, and suddenly, a little sparkly star pops up. You quickly make a wish because folks believe that wishing on that very first star can bring you good luck. It’s like the universe’s way of giving you a little boost. It’s kind of magical, right?

94. Putting bay leaves under your pillow brings prophetic dreams.

Putting bay leaves under your pillow is another quirky custom found in Western traditions. Imagine you’re tucking into bed and slip a bay leaf under your pillow. People believe this can lead to prophetic dreams—basically, dreams that might hint at the future! It’s just like having a tiny fortune teller right there with you while you sleep. Plus, the smell of bay leaves can make your room smell all fancy!

95. A coin in a baby’s hand brings good fortune.

A coin in a baby’s hand is a charming belief from Eastern European cultures. When a baby holds a coin, it’s thought to bring good fortune in life. The idea is that it symbolizes wealth and prosperity. Who wouldn’t want that? Imagine all the ice cream and toys you could buy with good fortune—yum!

96. Seeing a snake in your dream brings good luck.

Seeing a snake in your dream has a special meaning in Hindu culture. Now, I know snakes can be a bit scary, but dreaming of one is believed to bring good luck. It’s like your subconscious is telling you that cool things are heading your way. Just make sure to wake up and remember all those good vibes—no slithering away for those lucky moments!

97. Washing clothes on New Year’s Day washes away good luck.

Washing clothes on New Year’s Day is a superstitious practice in various cultures. Many believe that doing laundry on this day can actually wash away good luck. Can you imagine starting the year with a bad luck hangover? Sounds like a terrible way to kick off your fresh start! It’s like saying, “Hey, good luck, see ya later!” Not cool!

98. Placing a knife under the bed during childbirth wards off evil spirits.

Placing a knife under the bed during childbirth is an interesting tradition found in Western cultures. This is thought to ward off evil spirits while a mother is giving birth. Just picture a brave little knife standing guard like a knight! It’s meant to keep everyone safe and sound, ensuring that only good vibes make it into the nursery. How’s that for a clever idea?

99. Tuesday the 13th is Unlucky in Spain and Greece.

While many people around the world think Friday the 13th is the day to watch out for, in Spain and Greece, they have a whole different story! For them, it’s Tuesday the 13th that brings the bad vibes. Why? Because this day is tied to the fall of Constantinople, which is a pretty big deal in history. Imagine a day that marks the end of a city—yikes! No wonder they think twice before making any big plans on that day.

100. Don’t sit at a table corner.

Finally, here’s a funny one: in Hungary and Russia, if you sit at the corner of a table, your romantic life might take a nosedive. Seriously! If someone arrives late and has to wiggle in at the corner, legends say that person will never get married. Can you imagine that? You’re just trying to enjoy dinner, and suddenly your love life is at stake! So, if you ever find yourself at a dinner table, choose a seat wisely—your future might depend on it!

Final Thoughts

list-of-100-strange-superstitions-from-around-the-world

Superstitions offer a fascinating glimpse into the beliefs and practices that shape different cultures. They’re a testament to humanity’s enduring quest for luck, protection, and understanding of the unknown. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, these quirky traditions add a bit of magic to our daily lives.

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