Ever met someone who refuses to take an elevator to the thirteenth floor? The same person who probably hides under their beds when Friday the 13th strike, right? This irrational fear of the number 13 is called ‘triskaidekaphobia’ and its origin is actually really interesting…
According to the website, World Wide Words, the number 13 got its initial bad rep from The Last Supper during which Jesus was betrayed by one of the 13 present around the table. Others speculate it to be part of Hindu mythology.
‘Friggatriskaidekaphobia’ is a derivative of ‘triskaidekaphobia’ but refers specifically to fear of Friday the 13th. It derives from the name of the ancient Scandinavian goddess Frigga, after whom Friday is named. If you suffer from ‘friggatriskaidekaphobia’ 2009 was an especially harrowing year for you since it turned up three times as opposed to its general once a year appearance.
Source: World Wide Words
