Speak of the devil
📖 Meanings
- 1.
An expression used when the person being talked about arrives.
- 2.
Used when someone shows up while being discussed.
- 3.
Implying the person you were just talking about has arrived.
- 4.
A humorous way to acknowledge coincidence of appearance.
💬 Examples
- 1.
We were just talking about her—speak of the devil.
- 2.
You must be psychic—speak of the devil!
- 3.
We said his name and he walked in—speak of the devil.
- 4.
Well, speak of the devil, you’re just in time.
🗞️ Etymology
- 1.
Originally a superstitious phrase meaning not to tempt fate.
- 2.
Over time, evolved into a humorous phrase.
- 3.
Once taken literally, now used figuratively.
- 4.
From English folklore discouraging speaking the devil’s name.
🔁 Synonyms
- 1.
Look who’s here
- 2.
Speak of someone
- 3.
Guess who showed up
- 4.
Coincidence
- 5.
Unexpected arrival
🌀 Variants
- 1.
Talk of the devil
- 2.
Mention the devil
- 3.
Speak of him
- 4.
There he is
- 5.
Name and fame