. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.


Looking-glass.

It is unlucky to break a looking-glass. The nature of the illluck varies; thus, if a maiden, she will
never marry; if a married woman, it betokens a death, etc. This superstition arose from the use
made of mirrors in former times by magicians. If in their operations the mirror used was broken,
the magician was obliged to give over his operation, and the unlucky inquirer could receive no
answer.