Verb
/əˈkɜːrs/
The verb "accurse" is a rare term that means to invoke a curse upon someone or something; to curse. It is derived from the combination of the prefix "a-" meaning "to" or "in the direction of" and the root "curse." The word is not commonly used in everyday conversation or writing, making it more prevalent in literary, historical, or religious contexts. Its frequency of use is low, and it is more likely to be encountered in written texts rather than in spoken language.
Translation: 村民们相信女巫会诅咒任何违背她的人。
"In ancient tales, a hero often had to cleanse a land that had been accurse."
Translation: 在古代传说中，英雄常常需要净化一个被诅咒的土地。
"The king threatened to accurse those who plotted against him."
"Accurse" is not commonly found in idiomatic expressions due to its rarity in modern English. However, there are idiomatic phrases within the broader theme of cursing or invoking ill will that can illustrate concepts related to "accurse."
Example: She was so furious that she vowed to throw a curse on her enemies.
"Curse someone to the ends of the earth"
Example: In her rage, she wanted to curse him to the ends of the earth.
"Cursed be the day"
Example: Cursed be the day when I trusted him with my secrets.
"A curse upon your house"
The word "accurse" originates from Middle English "acursen," which comes from Old French "acourser," derived from the Latin "adcurrere," meaning "to run to or upon." The prefix "a-" implies a sense of direction, while "curse" comes from the Latin "currere," meaning "to run"—metaphorically suggesting the act of invoking a curse directed at someone.