curse

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curse / kərs/ • n. 1. a solemn utterance intended to invoke a supernatural power to inflict harm or punishment on someone or something: she'd put a curse on him. ∎  [usu. in sing.] a cause of harm or misery: impatience is the curse of our day and age. ∎  (the curse) inf. menstruation.2. an offensive word or phrase used to express anger or annoyance.• v. 1. [tr.] invoke or use a curse against. ∎  (be cursed with) be afflicted with: many owners have been cursed with a series of bankruptcies.2. [intr.] utter offensive words in anger or annoyance. ∎  [tr.] address with such words.DERIVATIVES: curs·er n.

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