Definition

Noun: 1. A charm or amulet believed to have magical power: A physical object, often worn or carried, that is thought to possess supernatural power to protect its owner or bring good fortune. 2. The supernatural or magical power attributed to such an object: The force or influence believed to be inherent in a charm or fetish. 3. The system of magic or supernatural belief involving such objects: The broader spiritual or magical practice associated with these charms, often within West African traditional religions.

Usage Examples

• As a physical charm:
  • The hunter wore a leather pouch containing a juju for protection.
  • She carried a small juju to bring her luck in the exam.
• Referring to magical power:
  • The villagers believed the juju of the sacred stone could heal the sick.
  • They feared the juju associated with the old idol.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in contexts related to West African traditional spiritual practices and their diasporic expressions (e.g., in Afro-Caribbean religions).
• It can be used metaphorically in informal English to describe an object or practice believed to bring good luck, similar to a "lucky charm."
  • He has a pre-game ritual; it's his personal juju.

Variants and Related Words

• Jujuism (noun): The system of beliefs and practices involving jujus.
• Ju-ju (noun): An alternative spelling.

Synonyms

• Charm
• Fetish
• Amulet
• Talisman
• Mascot (in a secular, informal sense)

Related Idioms and Phrases

• Bad juju: (Informal) A negative feeling, influence, or bad luck associated with a person, place, or situation.
  • That old, abandoned house has some serious bad juju.
• Good juju: (Informal) Positive energy, good vibes, or good luck.
  • We're lighting candles to bring some good juju into the new apartment.

Noun

1. a charm superstitiously believed to embody magical powers
2. the power associated with a juju