curse

[kɜːs]

[kɝs]

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A curse is an evil or bad wish that someone says to harm another person. It can also be a spell or magical expression meant to bring misfortune.

When we talk about curses, it's usually not something light or casual. A friend might joke with you about "cursing" your favorite sports team for losing a game, but when people use the word seriously, it means they're feeling really upset or angry and are saying hurtful things. You might hear someone say their family was cursed by bad luck after moving into a new house – in this case, they believe something negative has followed them there.

How common is "curse"?

Word curse is considered uncommon in modern English.
It appears most frequently in fiction texts and less often in other writings.

Definitions

noun

A supernatural detriment or hindrance; a bane.
A prayer or imprecation that harm may befall someone.
The cause of great harm, evil, or misfortune; that which brings evil or severe affliction; torment.
A vulgar epithet.
(usually with "the") A woman's menses.

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