crossed fingers

The gesture of 'crossed fingers' is widely recognized as a symbol of hope or good luck, with origins tracing back to pre-Christianity in Western Europe.

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Definition

B1Everyday

(informal)A hand gesture where one finger is placed over another to wish for good luck or a positive outcome.

Example

  • She crossed her fingers and hoped for the best.
  • Keep your fingers crossed that it doesn't rain tomorrow.

B2Superstition

(cultural)A symbolic act believed to bring good fortune or ward off bad luck.

Example

  • Crossing your fingers is a common superstition for good luck.
  • In many cultures, crossed fingers are used to invoke protection or favorable outcomes.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "crossed fingers":

cross one's fingersfingers crossedcross one's heartcrossed wirestouch woodknock on wood