imprecation
UK: /ˌɪmprɪˈkeɪʃ(ə)n/ | US: /ˌɪmprɪˈkeɪʃən/
n. a spoken curse or invocation of harm upon someone
n. the act of cursing or swearing vehemently
The word "imprecation" originates from Latin "imprecatio," combining "im-" (against) and "precari" (to pray). It originally referred to invoking divine retribution upon someone—essentially a "prayer for harm." Over time, it shifted to denote vehement curses or swearing, retaining its association with spoken malice. The morphemes logically trace the word's evolution from a ritualistic appeal to a general expression of hostility.
The witch uttered an imprecation under her breath, cursing the village.
His speech was filled with imprecations against his political rivals.
She recoiled at the old man’s sudden imprecation.
The sailor’s imprecations echoed across the stormy deck.
In ancient texts, imprecations were often formalized as divine punishments.