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Cur: meaning, definitions and examples

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cur

 

[ kɜːr ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

dog behavior

A 'cur' is a term often used to describe a dog that is considered to be of a mixed breed or a dog that does not have a particularly noble lineage. The term can carry a slightly derogatory connotation, implying that the dog may be unrefined or less desirable in terms of temperament or appearance. Historically, curs were working dogs that were used for various purposes, including herding and hunting. They were often valued for their practicality rather than their pedigree.

Synonyms

mixed breed, mongrel, mutt, scrappy dog.

Examples of usage

  • The farmer kept a cur to help him herd the sheep.
  • That cur barked at strangers passing by.
  • His dog was quite a cur, always getting into trouble.
  • She adopted a stray cur from the shelter.
Context #2 | Noun

derogatory term

In another sense, 'cur' can refer to a contemptible person, especially someone who is mean or cowardly. This usage is quite old and is rooted in the same sense of unworthiness found in the definition related to dogs. It often implies a lack of moral integrity or kindness.

Synonyms

cad, rascal, scoundrel, wretch.

Examples of usage

  • He acted like a cur when he betrayed his friends.
  • Don't be a cur; stand up for what's right.
  • She called him a cur for his dishonesty.

Translations

Translations of the word "cur" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mau

🇮🇳 कुत्ता

🇩🇪 Hund

🇮🇩 anjing

🇺🇦 собака

🇵🇱 pies

🇯🇵 犬

🇫🇷 chien

🇪🇸 perro

🇹🇷 köpek

🇰🇷 개

🇸🇦 كلب

🇨🇿 pes

🇸🇰 pes

🇨🇳 狗

🇸🇮 pes

🇮🇸 hundur

🇰🇿 ит

🇬🇪 ძაღლი

🇦🇿 it

🇲🇽 perro

Etymology

The word 'cur' has its origins in Middle English, derived from the Old French term 'coure' or 'curre', which referred to a dog of an inferior breed. The term is believed to stem from the root word associated with barking or yapping sounds, possibly linked to the Latin 'currere', meaning 'to run', which mirrors the behavior often exhibited by such dogs. Over time, 'cur' evolved to describe not just the mixed-breed dogs but also came to acquire a derogatory sense for people. By the late 14th century, it was being utilized in English literature to denote contemptible qualities in both animals and humans, reflecting societal attitudes towards purity of breed and moral character.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,309, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.