What do Greeks say when they spit?

So next time you're at a Greek event or holidaying in Greece and someone spits at you or mutters the words 'ftou', don't worry, it's not really an insult, it's just some superstitious Greek wishing you good luck and protection from the evil eye!

What is spitting in Greece?

Greeks believe that spitting chases away bad luck, misfortune and the devil. To 'protect' someone from these, you spit at them! It sounds crazy, but it's almost like telling the devil “nope, there's nothing of worth here, nothing to see here” - so you will see poor babies being spat on copiously by their loved ones!

Does Greece have a spit?

Voidokilia Beach, Peloponnese Peninsula, Greece

Whilst not technically a spit, Voidokilia Beach is a thin slither of land shaped in a smooth semi circle. In fact, Voidolkilia means 'Cow's Belly' and it's easy to see how it earned its name.

What does FTOU mean in Greek?

φτου • (ftou) ptui, ptooey, ptew, ptui (the sound of spitting) Φτου, ατυχία. Ftou, atychía. Damn it, what bad luck.

Do Greeks spit on people for good luck?

Spitting for Good Luck

There are definitely some “different” superstitions in which Greeks take part. Being spit on is probably one of them. That's right, spitting on someone is a way of diminishing any form of evil energy or presence. It's actually more of a FTOO, FTOO, FTOO; so just be aware.

They compliment you,then SPIT on you?!//GREECE INTERESTING FACTS

Why do Greeks spit 3 times?

Spitting, or rather the spitting sound (ftou ftou ftou, always three times to represent the Holy Trinity) is believed to protect against the curse of the evil eye.

Do Greeks use condoms?

Several factors contribute to Greece's low use of modern contraceptive methods, including the education system, culture, and doctor-patient conversations around birth control. Condoms are the preferred method of contraception in Greece.

What does opa mean in Greek?

It (OPA) literally means “to jump” and it's used in many ways to say “bravo”, “WoW”, “all right” or in today's lingo, “You Go”! When a Greek says OPA, they are usually dispensing complements, admiring your zest for life, your dancing or drinking prowess or showing their admiration of a performance.

What does Greek mean in bed?

noun Slang. anal intercourse. WILL YOU SAIL OR STUMBLE ON THESE GRAMMAR QUESTIONS?

What does bolo mean in Greek?

βόλος • (bólos) m (genitive βόλου); second declension. a throw with a casting-net, a cast of a net. (transferred senses): a net. the thing caught, a draught or catch.

Why can't you flush the toilet down in Greece?

Don't flush toilet paper in Greece

There's a very simple explanation: Greek sewage pipes are approximately two inches (50mm) in diameter. American and British plumbing is twice as large (four inches/100mm). The Greek pipes just get clogged.

Is Greece a tipping culture?

Although tipping in Greece is generally not expected or required, it's a sign of gratitude if you enjoy your service, whether it's in a bar, hotel, restaurant, or taxi. Leaving a modest tip will typically be appreciated in Greece.

What is the evil eye in Greek culture?

In Greek culture, the evil eye is known as “mati” (μάτι) — a curse given to someone with a malicious glare that is said to give bad luck or loss to whoever receives it.

Why do Greeks spit on Bride?

There is also a very old Greek tradition that requires to “spit” on the Bride and Groom. Of course, no literally. But by pretending that spitting on the happy couple the guest protect them from evil spirits!

What do Greeks say when they throw dishes?

And that mood for fun is what is known as “kefi” in Greek. As the plates are smashed, you will shout Opa! and perhaps break out in dance yourself.

What country spits on the Bride?

Kenya – Seriously? You just spit on the bride. In most cultures, spitting is regarded as a disgusting habit. Among Kenya's Massai people, it is regarded as good luck for the father of the bride to spit on his daughter's head and breasts before the ceremony.

What does breast mean in Greek?

μᾰστός • (mastós) m (genitive μᾰστοῦ); second declension. (anatomy) (especially of women) The human breast. (zootomy, rarely) (of animals) An udder. (of all mammals, in general) The breast.

Are Greeks good in bed?

Greeks have always been considered as the greatest and most active lovers worldwide.

Why do Greeks kiss each other?

Greeks are generally very expressive and friendly, so in Greece the most common way to greet a good friend is to give a big warm hug and then kiss them once on each cheek. This is the custom for both men and women, and between men and women. Making time for friends and family is an important part of Greek culture.

What does yasso mean in Greek?

Where does the Yasso name come from? “Yassou” in Greek means “hello.”

What does Yamas mean in Greek?

To say cheers in Greek, you say " Yamas" which is short for "Stin Yeia Mas" which means to our health. Cheers!

What does Yia Mas mean?

(Yia mas!) Meaning: Cheers (to us) Just like in many cultures, you say it while raising your glass, but unlike the French or the Hungarians, you do not have to look the person in the eyes.

Is abortion illegal in Greece?

In Greece in 2015–2019, there were a total of 140,000 pregnancies annually. Of these, 76,200 pregnancies were unintended and 34,600 ended in abortion. Abortion in Greece is legal on request.

Which country most using condoms?

Japan has the highest rate of condom usage in the world: in that country, condoms account for almost 80% of contraceptive use by married women. On average, in developed countries, condoms are the most popular method of birth control: 28% of married contraceptive users rely on condoms.

Did ancient Greeks wear bras?

The first-ever bra most likely dates back to ancient Greece, when women wrapped a band of wool or linen across their breasts, pinning or tying them in the back. Corsets didn't show up until around 1500 and quickly became mandatory for middle- and upper-class women in Western society.