Jinx @ Definition of Jinx by Merriam-Webster
Definition of jinx: one that brings bad luck; also : the state or spell of bad luck brought on by a jinx (used in http://nautil.us/blog/the-rituals-that-ward-off-bad-luck-arent-arbitrary)
In the middle of the desert you can say anything you want
Definition of jinx: one that brings bad luck; also : the state or spell of bad luck brought on by a jinx (used in http://nautil.us/blog/the-rituals-that-ward-off-bad-luck-arent-arbitrary)