Curst Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
curst
[kษrst ]
Definitions
superstitious practice
To curse means to invoke a supernatural power to bring harm or punishment to someone or something. It is often associated with strong emotions such as anger or resentment. People may curse others as a form of retribution or in moments of emotional distress. The act of cursing can be seen in various cultures as a way to express frustration, especially when someone feels wronged.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He cursed the day he made that decision.
- She felt the need to curse her luck after the incident.
- They believed he was cursed for his actions.
magical expression
A curse refers to a spoken word or phrase that is intended to bring misfortune to someone. It often has a mystical or magical connotation and is associated with folklore and myth. Curses can be product of anger or despair and are typically seen as negative or harmful. Many cultures have stories or legends about curses that affected individuals or even entire communities.
Synonyms
jynx, malediction, spell.
Examples of usage
- The ancient curse still haunted the village.
- He believed he was the target of a powerful curse.
- Legends tell of a curse placed on the treasure.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- In literature, a 'curst' character often embodies the theme of tragedy and misfortune, leading to dramatic narratives.
- Shakespeare frequently used variations of 'cursed' in his plays, highlighting the weight of destiny and supernatural influences.
- Writers like H.P. Lovecraft delve into themes of curses and the horror they bring, showcasing how 'curst' can evoke fear.
Folklore
- Many cultures have folk tales about 'curst' objects or places, where an item, like a necklace or a house, brings bad luck to its owner.
- In Celtic folklore, certain locations are deemed 'curst' due to their association with past wrongdoings or supernatural events.
- The concept of being 'curst' often explains natural disasters or personal misfortunes as a form of punishment.
Psychology
- Beliefs about being 'curst' can lead to a psychological phenomenon known as the 'curse of knowledge,' where prior knowledge makes understanding difficult.
- The psychological impact of thinking something is 'curst' can generate feelings of hopelessness and anxiety, affecting decision-making.
- Survivors of tragedies sometimes view their experiences as a 'curst' fate, influencing their outlook on life and future events.
Origin of 'curst'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'curst' comes from the Middle English word 'curst,' which is a variation of 'cursed', meaning to invoke harm or misfortune.
- This word has roots in the Old English 'cursian,' which means to call upon evil or misfortune.
- Over time, the usage of 'curst' has evolved, often used in a literary context to describe characters or places touched by darkness.
The word 'curse' comes from the Old French word 'curser', which means 'to invoke a magical power'. It is traced back to Latin 'currere', which means 'to run.' The transformation of meaning relates to the notion of someone being chased by misfortune, akin to being pursued by a supernatural force. In languages such as Old Norse, similar terms convey the idea of invoking evil or misfortune upon others. Historically, curses have played significant roles in religious and cultural contexts, often reflecting societal fears and beliefs about the supernatural.