Other Word Forms
Noun Inflected Forms
Etymology
Origin of curse word
First recorded in 1870–75
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
For now, though, EES, which stands for entry/exit system, has become the curse word of the summer for some Europe-bound U.S. travelers.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 12, 2026
I’ve covered Nancy Pelosi for more than three decades and never once heard her utter a curse word, in public or private.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 8, 2025
He is quick to laugh at his own jokes and appreciates the shock value of a well-placed curse word.
From Seattle Times ● Mar. 8, 2023
We recorded together, a wonderful song and not one curse word — a very, very positive message.
From New York Times ● Jan. 1, 2023
Philbert sucks in his breath like I just said a curse word, which I actually have been somewhat careful not to do in front of him.
From "X: A Novel" by Ilyasah Shabazz
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
