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curse

n. · v.
US //ˈkɝs// UK //kˈɜːs// curse
  1. 1 supernatural spell (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a magic spell or wish that someone hopes will cause bad things to happen to another person.

    a solemn utterance intended to invoke a supernatural power to inflict harm or punishment on someone or something.

    Example

    In the story, the old witch put a curse on the prince that turned him into a frog.

    Example

    Local folklore suggests that a curse was placed upon the tomb, promising misfortune to anyone who dared to disturb the ancient remains.
  2. 2 a swear word (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    a very rude or offensive word that people use when they are angry or upset.

    a profane or obscene word used to express anger, frustration, or contempt.

    Example

    He shouted a loud curse when he accidentally dropped the heavy box on his foot.

    Example

    The broadcast was interrupted by a string of curses from the crowd, forcing the producers to cut the audio feed immediately.
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  1. 3 source of misery (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    something that causes a lot of trouble or unhappiness over a long time.

    a cause of great harm, persistent misfortune, or severe affliction.

    Example

    The lack of clean water has been a curse for the small village for many years.

    Example

    The country's vast natural resources proved to be a curse, as they fueled decades of corruption and internal conflict rather than prosperity.
  2. 4 to use bad language (v.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal

    to use rude or offensive words because you are angry.

    to utter offensive or profane language, often as an expression of anger or frustration.

    Example

    She started to curse under her breath when she realized she had missed the last bus.

    Example

    The coach was warned by the referee after he continued to curse at the players from the sidelines.

    Usage

    Often used as an intransitive verb without a direct object.
  3. 5 to wish harm upon (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    to say magic words or hope that something bad happens to someone.

    to invoke supernatural harm or evil upon a person or object.

    Example

    The villain cursed the hero, promising that they would never find happiness.

    Example

    The dying man cursed his enemies with his final breath, leaving a chilling atmosphere in the room.

    Usage

    Transitive verb requiring a direct object.
Etymology 1

From Middle English curse, kors, cors, curs, from Old English cors, curs (“curse”), of unknown origin.

Etymology 2

From Middle English cursen, corsen, coursen, from Old English corsian, cursian (“to curse”), from the noun (see above).

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