luck-money

A child receives luck-money in a red envelope from a smiling adult.

Definition

1. Noun (uncountable):
   • Money given for good luck: "luck-money" refers to a sum of money given to someone, often as a gift or token, with the intention of bringing them good fortune or prosperity. It is commonly associated with cultural or superstitious practices, such as during weddings, business openings, or festive occasions.

Usage Examples

• (A monetary gift intended to ensure good fortune in the union.)
• (A traditional gift of money for good luck, often in Asian cultures.)
• (A symbolic act to invite financial success.)

Advanced Usage

• "to give luck-money": to offer a monetary gift for auspicious purposes.

  • The investors gave luck-money to the new business owner before the grand opening. (They provided money as a gesture of goodwill and hope for success.)

• "luck-money as a tradition": a cultural practice where money is exchanged for blessings.

  • In many Asian weddings, luck-money is exchanged between families to symbolize unity and good wishes. (It is a ceremonial act with deep cultural significance.)

Variants and Related Words

• Lucky money (n): a synonym for "luck-money," often used interchangeably.

  • The children received lucky money in red envelopes during Lunar New Year. (A common variant in everyday usage.)

• Luck (n): success or good fortune brought by chance.

  • She attributed her win to luck. (General concept of fortune.)

• Money (n): a medium of exchange in the form of coins and banknotes.

  • He saved money for a rainy day. (General financial resource.)

Synonyms

• Auspicious gift: a present given to promote good fortune.
• Good-luck token: an object or sum of money believed to bring luck.
• Lucky charm (in monetary form): a charm that is money itself.

Related Idioms

• Money for old rope: easy money, sometimes given as a token of luck.

  • He considered the bonus luck-money for old rope. (Money earned with little effort, akin to a lucky gift.)

• A lucky penny: a small coin kept for good luck, similar in spirit to luck-money.

  • She always carries a lucky penny in her purse. (A personal token of fortune.)