Words / C2

impr-i-KAYSHUN/ˌɪmprɪˈkeɪʃn/

An imprecation is a spoken curse (formal / literary): mutter an imprecation, an imprecation upon the scheme. A malediction (already in the dictionary) is a curse intended to bring harm — the close twin. Anathema (already in the dictionary) is a detested thing, of hate not of a spoken hex. Invective (already in the dictionary) is abusive attack, of insult not of a curse. This batch: contumely is insulting scorn; to vituperate is to abuse in violent language. Biscuits are not a numbered objection.

Meaning

A spoken curse (formal / literary).

Examples

• “An imprecation over biscuits is not a numbered objection.”
• “A malediction is a curse (already in C2). Anathema is a detested thing (already in C2) — hate, not a spoken curse. Invective is abusive verbal attack (already in C2). Contumely is insulting scorn (this batch). To vituperate is to abuse in violent language (this batch). A dated finding can still be calm. Heat that never numbers the risk is theatre. Write the objection; leave the hex.”

Good to know

A spoken curse (formal). Close: malediction (already in C2). Mix-up: anathema (a detested thing — already in C2). This batch: contumely; vituperate. A curse ≠ a minute.

Near in meaning

curse, malediction, execration, hex

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