What does 'touch wood' mean?

What it means: A superstitious expression said when you state something positive, to avoid jinxing it. You often physically touch a wooden surface while saying it.

"I haven't been ill all year — touch wood."
"The project is going well, touch wood."

American equivalent: "Knock on wood" — same meaning, same tradition.

Where it comes from: Multiple theories. One traces it to pagan beliefs that spirits lived in trees and could protect you. Another links it to Christian traditions involving the wood of the cross. Whatever the origin, the superstition is ancient.

Is it serious? Most people who say it don't genuinely believe it. It's more of a verbal habit — acknowledging good fortune while culturally signalling "I'm not taking this for granted." It's self-deprecating and slightly charming.

Register: Casual. Works in conversation. You'd never write it in a professional document, but it's perfectly natural in conversation with colleagues.

Tags: British English, superstition, expressions, everyday conversation