jynx
jynx Lexical Profile
jynx Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A person, object, or influence believed to bring bad luck; an alternative spelling of jinx.
"Many sailors considered a whistling passenger on a ship to be a jynx that would summon a storm."
A small Old World woodpecker of the genus Jynx, commonly known as a wryneck, characterized by its mottled brown plumage and its peculiar habit of twisting its head and neck in a snakelike manner when threatened.
"The ornithologist traveled to the Eurasian woodland to observe the nesting habits of the jynx."
• verb
To bring bad luck to, curse, or cast a malevolent spell upon; an alternative spelling of jinx.
"The superstitious athlete refused to declare a victory early, fearing it would jynx the team's chances."
Word Nuance & Usage
In scientific contexts, 'Jynx' is the formal taxonomic genus for the wryneck bird, whereas in general usage, 'jynx' is simply an occasional variant spelling of 'jinx' (meaning a curse or bad luck).
• Rhymes for jynx
Word Origin & Etymology
From Latin 'iynx', derived from Ancient Greek ἴυγξ (íunx, 'wryneck'). The wryneck bird was historically used in witchcraft and charms, which eventually led to the modern English concept of a 'jinx' or bad luck.