WORD OF THE DAY: APOTROPAIC
adjective | ap-uh-troh-PAY-ik
What It Means
Something described as apotropaic is designed or intended to avert evil.
// The etchings are believed to be associated with ancient apotropaic rituals.
Examples of APOTROPAIC
“Scholars … say witches were believed to be attracted to the scent of a human shoe and, having entered one, found themselves trapped. Footwear is one of a mindboggling array of items used in apotropaic magic, designed to turn away harm or evil influence.” — Pete Pheasant, The Derby (England) Telegraph, 13 Mar. 2025.
Did You Know?
Apotropaic is a charming word, and not just because of its cadence. You see, this term is a literal descriptor for things believed to protect against evil. Apotropaic motifs can be found throughout history, from carvings of Greek Gorgons to charms worn to repel the evil eye. The word apotropaic comes from the Greek verb apotrépein, meaning “to turn away from, avert,” combining apo- (“away”) with trépein (“to turn”). The magic of apo- doesn’t end there: its influence is evident in many English words, including apology, apostrophe, apostle, and apocalypse.
Merriam Webster Dictionary
