Curse Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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curse
curse
Definitions
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.
Translations
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Quick facts about “curse”
Curse is a 1-syllable noun and verb. It is pronounced /ˈkɝs/ in American English and /kˈɜːs/ in British English. On finesentence.com it has 2 meanings, 6 synonyms, and translations into 21 languages. It ranks #7,065 among the most common English words.
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“curse” in history
- In medieval Europe, curses were often thought to result from a witch's spell, leading to hunts and trials against those accused.
- Curses like 'The Curse of the Pharaohs' were believed to bring doom to those who disturbed ancient tombs, reflecting a mix of history and superstition.
“curse” in culture
- Many cultures have their own traditional curses, often linked to folklore and passed down through generations.
- In pop culture, curses are a common trope in movies and books, giving supernatural powers to the stories.
“curse” in psychology
- Research shows that believing in curses can have a psychological effect, leading individuals to manifest negative outcomes due to stress or fear.
- The term ‘self-fulfilling prophecy’ arises from the idea that if you believe you’re cursed, you may act in ways that fulfill that belief.
“curse” in literature
- Curses play a significant role in many classic tales, such as Shakespeare's 'Macbeth,' where the eponymous character faces dire consequences for his wicked actions.
- In fairy tales, curses often serve as catalysts for character transformation or the plot's conflict, emphasizing their narrative importance.
Origin of 'curse'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'cursus,' meaning 'to invoke,' reflecting the belief that darkness can be called upon.
- An ancient root connects the term to the concept of 'binding,' showing how words could supposedly tie a person to misfortune.
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.