To take a customary action to ward off some misfortune that is believed to be attracted by a presumptuous statement.
Hopefully; a self-directive to undertake the customary action to ward off bad luck.
To claim, to allege, especially when falsely or as a form of deliberate deception.
To feign, affect (a state, quality, etc.).
To lay claim to (an ability, status, advantage, etc.). (originally used without to)
To make oneself appear to do or be doing something; to engage in make-believe.
Not really what it is represented as being; imaginary, feigned.
the act of engaging in pretend play.