Personal magnetism or charm that brings good luck or success. A magical power or spell in folk belief systems.
From Louisiana Creole, ultimately derived from West African languages, particularly Fulani 'moco'ko' meaning 'medicine man' or similar terms for magical power. The word entered mainstream American English through blues music and African American vernacular in the early 20th century.
Mojo bridges the gap between African spiritual traditions and modern slang for personal charisma, showing how enslaved peoples' cultural practices evolved and eventually influenced mainstream American culture. The word's journey from sacred ritual object to describing someone's swagger illustrates the complex ways cultural exchange happens.
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