curse — a solemn utterance intended to invoke a supernatural power to inflict harm or punishment on someone or something
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a solemn utterance intended to invoke a supernatural power to inflict harm or punishment on someone or something
Pronunciation (IPA): /kɜːrs/
Example Sentences
- My phone battery always dies at the worst possible moment - it's like a curse!
- The pirates believed the treasure was protected by an ancient curse.
- He cursed under his breath when he realized he forgot his wallet at home.
curse
NOUN[/kɜːrs/]
a solemn utterance intended to invoke a supernatural power to inflict harm or punishment on someone or something
The witch placed a curse on the kingdom, and all the flowers wilted instantly.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
Curse derives from Old English 'curs', originally meaning 'to anger' or 'to express anger'. Over time, the sense evolved to denote invoking supernatural harm or misfortune upon someone through words or ritual.
Breakdown
curs (anger, wrath) + -e (verb ending) = curse. The semantic shift reflects the progression from expressing anger to pronouncing magical harm.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My phone battery always dies at the worst possible moment - it's like a curse!”
“The pirates believed the treasure was protected by an ancient curse.”
“He cursed under his breath when he realized he forgot his wallet at home.”
“Monday mornings are truly the curse of weekend warriors everywhere.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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