The horseshoe is considered a lucky symbol in English customs. It resembles the other symbols associated with good fortune in other cultures such as the crescent, half circle or "U".

在英语文化中，马蹄铁被看做是一种幸运符。它类似于其他文化中与幸运有关的标志，诸如新月、半圆或者是“U”形。

Crescent or "U" shapes are often said to be the symbol of fertility and also possesses power to ward off evil spirit. As it is made of iron and used for horses, horseshoes are also linked to strength and power.

新月或者“U”形往往被认为是丰饶肥沃的象征，并且还具有驱除邪灵的魔力。而马蹄铁由于是用在马身上的铁制品，因而又被人们看作与力量和权力有关。

As such, combining all these signs of good luck, the horseshoe is regarded as a powerful device to bring fortune and keep evil spirits away. It is usually nailed to the front door to protect the household from uninvited visitors like witches and evils. However, the horseshoe must be placed in an upright "U" position so that the good fortune will be retained by the household.

因此，集所有幸运象征于一身的马蹄铁就被人们看做是能招福辟邪的利器。人们通常将马蹄铁钉在房子的大门上，保护家人免受诸如巫师或者邪灵等不速之客的打扰。不过，钉的时候马蹄铁的U形口一定要朝上，只有这样，这家人才能留得住好运。