Cursing
/ˈkɜːrsɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo utter offensive words, often expressing anger, frustration, or disrespect.
/ˈkɜːrsɪŋ/
To use offensive language; to swear.
The driver was cursing after getting a flat tire.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're super mad and you say some not-nice words. That's cursing! It's like yelling with words instead of your voice.
👶 For kids: Saying bad words that can make people feel sad or angry.
More Examples
She started cursing when she realized she had forgotten her keys.
He cursed his luck as the rain began to pour.
How It's Used
"He was cursing under his breath because he stubbed his toe."
"The pirate captain was known for his constant cursing and foul language."
To invoke or pronounce a curse upon; to imprecate evil upon.
/ˈkɜːrsɪŋ/
To invoke harm or evil upon someone or something.
The old woman was accused of cursing the village.
💡 Simply: Imagine you wish something bad would happen to someone, like in an old story. That's cursing, but it's not a good thing to do in real life!
👶 For kids: Wishing something bad would happen to someone or something.
More Examples
He cursed the weather that ruined his vacation.
The magician was believed to have cursed the treasure, protecting it from thieves.
How It's Used
"Witches were believed to be capable of cursing their enemies."
"The king cursed the traitor who betrayed him."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
curse like a sailor
To use a lot of swear words.
"He curses like a sailor when he's frustrated."
a fate worse than cursing
A situation or outcome that is so bad it is considered worse than being cursed.
"Losing his job was a fate worse than cursing for him."
From Old English *cursian*, derived from *curs* meaning 'a curse'. The word's development reflects the historical use of curses in invoking misfortune.
Used in ancient times as a form of invoking supernatural powers, often in rituals and religious ceremonies. The use has evolved over time, with its usage also including profanity.
Memory tip
Think of the word 'curse'. Cursing is the act of using curses.
Word Origin
"*cursian* originally meant 'to pray for evil to befall someone or something' or 'to call down evil upon someone'."