Definition & Meaning of "[thank] {one's} lucky stars"

What is the origin of the idiom "thank one's lucky stars" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "thank one's lucky stars" can be traced back to the ancient belief in the influence of celestial bodies, such as stars and planets, on human affairs. In astrology and ancient cultures, stars were often associated with luck, destiny, and fortune. People believed that the positions of the stars at the time of their birth or during significant events could affect their fate. Over time, this belief evolved into the figurative expression "thank one's lucky stars," which is commonly used in personal conversations, especially when individuals feel relieved or appreciative of a lucky break or when they acknowledge that things could have turned out much worse.