n. & v.
n. 1 a solemn utterance intended to invoke a supernatural power to inflict destruction or punishment on a person or thing. 2 the evil supposedly resulting from a curse. 3 a violent exclamation of anger; a profane oath. 4 a thing that causes evil or harm. 5 (prec. by the) colloq. menstruation. 6 a sentence of excommunication.
v. 1 tr. a utter a curse against. b (in imper.) may God curse. 2 tr. (usu. in passive; foll. by with) afflict with (cursed with blindness). 3 intr. utter expletive curses; swear. 4 tr. excommunicate. curser n.
[ OE curs, cursian, of unkn. orig. ]