CURSE is a solemn utterance intended to invoke supernatural harm, profane language expressing anger, or a cause of great harm or misfortune. Also means to utter offensive words.
Yes. CURSE is in the Scrabble-style word list used by our tools and scores 7 points in Scrabble, 9 in Words With Friends and 9 in Wordfeud (base tile values, no board multipliers). Always check the dictionary your game uses (NWL, Collins or the WWF list) before playing.
| Letter | C | U | R | S | E | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scrabble | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 7 |
| Words With Friends | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
| Wordfeud | 4 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 9 |
CURSE embodies humanity's belief in the power of words to shape reality. From ancient incantations to modern profanity, from biblical maledictions to sports superstitions, curses represent our deepest fears about language's ability to harm. This word bridges the supernatural and mundane, the sacred and profane, revealing how utterances can become weapons, whether we believe in magic or merely in the psychological power of suggestion.
In its supernatural sense, a curse is a solemn utterance intended to invoke harm or punishment upon someone or something through mystical or divine power. Curses appear in every culture: ancient Egyptian tomb curses threatening grave robbers, Roma curses invoking justice, Caribbean obeah, European witchcraft, and modern Wiccan ethics forbidding harmful magic. Whether effective through spiritual forces or psychological suggestion, curses represent humanity's attempt to weaponize words themselves.
The profane meaning—swearing or using offensive language—evolved from the religious concept. When we "curse," we invoke taboo words related to bodily functions, sexuality, or blasphemy. This linguistic transgression carries social power: cursing can shock, offend, bond, or relieve stress. Studies show swearing actually reduces physical pain perception and increases strength—perhaps explaining why we curse when we stub our toes or lift heavy objects.
The etymology of "curse" reveals a fascinating split between religious and secular meanings that diverged in medieval times. The word entered Middle English as "curs" from Old English "curs," but its ultimate origin remains mysteriously uncertain—fitting for a word dealing with dark powers and forbidden speech.
Anagrams: CRUSECURESECRUSSUCRE
Hooks: no front hooks; back CURSED, CURSER, CURSES.
Words inside CURSE: 32 shorter words can be made from these letters – highest scoring: CRUSECURESECRUSSUCRECRUSCUESCURECURSECRUECUSRECSCRU. See all words from CURSE.