Curse: meaning, definitions and examples

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curse

[ kəːs ]

^{Context #1}

bad luck

A curse is a wish that something bad will happen to someone or something.

Synonyms

hex, jinx, malediction

Examples of usage

They believe that the curse will bring them bad luck.
The curse placed on the family has lasted for generations.

^{Context #2}

to invoke evil

To curse is to invoke or wish for evil, calamity, or injury upon someone or something.

Synonyms

damn, hex, maledict

Examples of usage

She cursed the thief who stole her purse.
The witch cursed the villagers for their betrayal.

Translations

Translations of the word "curse" in other languages:

🇵🇹 maldição

🇮🇳 शाप

🇩🇪 Fluch

🇮🇩 kutukan

🇺🇦 прокляття

🇵🇱 klątwa

🇯🇵 呪い (noroi)

🇫🇷 malédiction

🇪🇸 maldición

🇹🇷 lanet

🇰🇷 저주 (jeoju)

🇸🇦 لعنة (la'na)

🇨🇿 kletba

🇸🇰 kliatba

🇨🇳 诅咒 (zǔzhòu)

🇸🇮 prekletstvo

🇮🇸 bölvun

🇰🇿 қарғыс

🇬🇪 წყევლა (ts'q'evla)

🇦🇿 lənət

🇲🇽 maldición

Word origin

The word 'curse' originated from the Old English word 'curs', which meant a prayer that evil or harm befall someone. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the idea of a spell or formula that brings bad luck or misfortune. Curses have been a part of folklore and superstition in many cultures throughout history, often associated with magic, witchcraft, and revenge.

See also: accursed, cursed, curser, cursing.