Cur

A derogatory term for a dog, especially one of mixed breed, considered to be of low breeding or ill-tempered. Figuratively, it's used to describe a person who is mean-spirited, contemptible, or cowardly. The word often carries connotations of being inferior, insignificant, or deserving of contempt. Its usage suggests a lack of respect or admiration, highlighting perceived negative qualities. Originally, it simply meant a mongrel dog, but over time, the term acquired a much broader negative social meaning, frequently applied to people of low social standing or viewed as morally deficient.

Cur meaning with examples

• The stray dog skulking near the alley was a scraggly cur, its ribs visible beneath its matted fur. Despite his initial fear, the boy offered the dog a piece of his sandwich, and the cur, cautiously approached, its tail giving a hesitant wag of approval. The **cur's** fearful eyes seemed to plead for kindness and recognition, showing he was more in need of love than just a handout. His demeanor changed from fearful to happy to be acknowledged.
• The harsh criticism was directed at the politician, using the word cur to describe them, suggesting they were disloyal and deceitful. The audience recoiled, feeling disgusted by the speaker's choice of words, recognizing the cruelty of the insult. The individual felt utterly deflated by this direct attack on their character, and realized how easily language could wound an individual..
• During the heated debate, the insults escalated with one debater, calling his opponent a cur, implying cowardice. This caused an uproar from the panel, due to its offensive nature, disrupting the proceedings of the debate. The individual who spoke felt deeply embarrassed by the outburst, recognizing he had allowed emotion to cloud judgment, and was reprimanded for poor behavior.
• The old farmer often used the word cur to describe any of the neighboring dogs running freely across his property, regardless of breed. He viewed them as a nuisance. His neighbor was angered by this disrespectful use of language towards their pet and an argument ensued, over his disrespectful language choices. Their long-standing disagreement further strained their relationship over the use of this terminology.