jinx
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /dʒɪŋks/
KK: /dʒɪŋks/
noun
Definition
A person or thing that is thought to cause bad luck or misfortune.
Example
He believes that the old statue is a jinx that brings misfortune to anyone who owns it.
Conversation
I think I might have a jinx on my team this season.
Really? What happened this time?
Every time we play, someone gets injured or sick.
That sounds rough! Maybe it’s time to change up your luck.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
curse
hex
spell
Antonyms
blessing
luck
fortune
transitive verb
Definition
To cause someone or something to have bad luck or misfortune.
Example
She believes that stepping on a crack will jinx her chances of winning the game.
Tense Forms
Past: jinxed
Past Participle: jinxed
Conversation
I think I accidentally jinxed our team with my prediction.
Oh no, what did you say?
I mentioned we’d win for sure, and then we started losing.
Root Explanation
The word 'jinx' originates from the Latin word 'iynx', which refers to a type of bird used in witchcraft and divination. The term evolved to describe a spell or charm that brings bad luck or misfortune.
Memory Tip
Think of the 'iynx' bird associated with spells and bad luck, which helps you remember that a 'jinx' refers to something that brings misfortune.
Visually Confused Words
jin