# curses

/ˈkɝsɪz/ (US) · /kˈɜːsɪz/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Interjection

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/curses
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

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.

For teachers: an exclamation of frustration or disappointment. Often used ironically or humorously to mimic the register of melodramatic fiction.

## Examples

- 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 notes

- Used as a standalone exclamation; often capitalised and followed by an exclamation mark in writing.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.