Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

withershins

adverb
/ˈwɪðərˌʃɪnz/
Definition
In a direction contrary to the natural or clockwise direction, typically used in relation to a ritual or superstition.
Examples
  • He walked withershins around the circle as part of the ancient ritual.
  • To ward off misfortune, she avoided doing anything withershins during the full moon.
Meaning
The term ‘withershins’ refers to moving counterclockwise or in a left-handed manner, often considered to bring bad luck in various folk traditions.
Synonyms
  • Counterclockwise
  • Counter to
  • Anticlockwise