Triskaidekaphobia

Triskaidekaphobia comes from the Greek words ‘Tris’ (three), ‘Kai’ (and), ‘Deka’ (ten), and ‘Phobia’ (fear). Literally translated it means the fear of the number 13. It is my favorite word because not only is it a beautiful and fun word to say, but also because it is thought to come from a Norse legend of Loki, the god of mischief (and also the 13th god). In this legend there is a party, and Loki tricks another god, Baldr (the 13th guest to arrive a this party), to accidentally kill his brother. This is where we get the superstition that when 13 are gathered together, one will die in the coming year. I also enjoy this word because it’s mere existence just makes the world so turned around. Some buildings don’t have 13th floors. Some airplanes don’t have 13th seats. It’s so silly!

Rebecca
Tuscaloosa, AL