Do you avoid anything connected with the number thirteen, think it lucky when a black cat crosses your path and unlucky to see the new moon through glass? Belief in superstitions links us with a time when everyday events and objects had magical significance. A treasure trove of fascinating information, A dictionary of Omens and Superstitions reveals the secrets of hundreds of ancient traditions. Do you know: What it means if a cat sits and washes itself in your doorway? Why women should have their hair cut only when the moon is waxing? Why people in Yorkshire throw caterpillars over their shoulders? What it means if you mistakenly recognize a perfect stranger as someone you know? Why Thursdays are the unluckiest days in Germany and 28 December ill-fated throughout Europe? And why it is universally believed unlucky to walk under ladders?

Does it seem like you're jinxed -- that someone has put the double whammy on you? Fear no more. Good luck is just around the corner. Here are dozens of superstitions and omens and rituals to break them. Includes such popular superstitions as: signs of good or bad luck; superstitions concerning children; howling of dogs; charms and amulets; black cats; drinking toasts; signs of approach bad health and death; superstitions involving card playing and gambling; birth days; evil eye removal; unwanted visitors; precious stones; colours.

Strange beliefs and even stranger omens have liferated through the ages. Here is a ripe collection which might change minds about broken mirrors, black cats and other ingrained beliefs.

Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. We are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.

"If you've ever wanted the definitive answers on subjects such as black cats and white heather, look no further than this classic dictionary. Entries are illustrated by quotations that trace their development through the centuries. A work of reference for anyone with an interest in superstitions and their history." "Entries give real examples of usage, illustrating the meaning, history, and origin of superstitions. Subjects covered include spells, cures, rituals, taboos, charms, and omens. The dictionary is fully cross-referenced for easy browsing."--BOOK JACKET.