Touch wood
Meaning
An exclamation used to ward off bad luck after making a boast or expressing a hope, implying a desire for the current good fortune to continue.
Origin
The belief in touching wood to avert bad luck is deeply rooted in ancient pagan cultures, where trees were revered as homes for benevolent spirits or even gods. People would physically touch the bark of a tree to invoke protection, give thanks, or ward off evil spirits and tempting fate after making a boastful statement or expressing a hopeful desire. This ritual was a direct appeal to the powerful, unseen forces residing within the trees, ensuring that spoken good fortune did not attract envy or ill will. The phrase eventually evolved into a verbal shorthand, a direct echo of that ancient, protective gesture.
Examples
- I haven't had a single day off sick this year, touch wood.
- Our new business venture has been incredibly successful so far, touch wood, and we hope it continues this way.