apotropaically
|a-po-tro-pa-i-cal-ly|
🇺🇸
/əˌpoʊtrəˈpeɪɪk/
🇬🇧
/əˌpɒtrəˈpeɪɪk/
(apotropaic)
warding off evil
Etymology
'apotropaic' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'apotropaios', where 'apo-' meant 'away' and 'trepein' meant 'to turn'.
'apotropaic' changed from the Greek word 'apotropaios' into Late Latin/medieval forms and entered English via French/Latin channels, eventually becoming the modern English 'apotropaic' and then the adverb 'apotropaically'.
Initially, it meant 'turning away' (literally 'turning away from something'), but over time it evolved into its current sense of 'intended to ward off evil or misfortune.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
intended to ward off evil or misfortune; serving to avert or turn away harm.
An apotropaic amulet was placed above the cradle to protect the child.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adverb 1
in a manner intended to avert evil or bad luck; in a way designed to protect against misfortune (adverbial form of 'apotropaic').
She hung several charms apotropaically above the doorway to keep misfortune away.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/23 00:32