Ward off evil
Meaning
To protect oneself or something from harm, negative influences, or malevolent forces.
Origin
The very idea of "warding off evil" is as old as humanity's fear of the unknown. From prehistoric caves where symbols were scrawled to deter malevolent spirits, to ancient Egyptian amulets safeguarding pharaohs, humans have always sought to protect themselves from unseen forces. The word "ward" itself, rooted in Old English "weardian" (to guard) and Old French "guarder," signifies this deep-seated human impulse. Across countless cultures, whether through protective charms, incantations, or elaborate rituals, the act of physically or spiritually pushing away misfortune has been a universal response to an unpredictable world, cementing the phrase's timeless power.
Examples
- Many cultures use amulets or rituals to ward off evil spirits.
- She always kept a dream catcher above her bed, hoping it would ward off evil nightmares.