curses
interj. B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈkɝsɪz// UK //kˈɜːsɪz// curs·es
interj. an old-fashioned way to show you are annoyed or angry when something goes wrong. It is often used in a funny way to sound like a villain in a movie.
interj. an exclamation of frustration or disappointment. Often used ironically or humorously to mimic the register of melodramatic fiction.
Curses! I missed the last bus home.
Curses! My arch-nemesis has escaped through the secret trapdoor once again.
The protagonist shouted 'Curses!' when the final puzzle piece fell behind the radiator, perfectly capturing the campy tone of the mystery novel.
Usage
Used as a standalone exclamation; often capitalised and followed by an exclamation mark in writing.