adverb
- in a manner intended to ward off evil, misfortune, or harm; by means of a charm, ritual, or practice believed to avert bad luck or danger
Usage: formal; often used in academic or anthropological contexts
Examples
- The ancient Greeks wore amulets apotropaically to protect themselves from curses.
- She knocked on wood apotropaically after mentioning her good fortune.
- The ritual was performed apotropaically to ward off disease from the village.
- He spoke the blessing apotropaically, hoping to prevent misfortune.
- The symbol was displayed apotropaically above the doorway to ensure safety.