Imprecations

Imprecations (plural) are curses; invocations of evil or misfortune upon someone or something. They are often forceful and emotionally charged expressions of anger, frustration, or a desire for retribution. Historically, imprecations were sometimes believed to have power, intended to invoke supernatural forces to harm the target. Today, they're more commonly used as strong verbal expressions of disapproval or ill-will, often considered hyperbolic and not meant to be taken literally. They can range from relatively mild expressions of annoyance to deeply hateful pronouncements.

Imprecations meaning with examples

• After the disastrous business deal, the furious CEO unleashed a string of imprecations against his former partners, vowing their failure. His secretary was so intimidated that she didn't say anything for fear of receiving the fallout.
• The play's antagonist, consumed by jealousy, uttered imprecations, hoping to ruin the hero's happiness and fortune, believing that ill wishes would somehow come to be true.
• During the heated political debate, the commentator hurled imprecations at the opposing party's policies, making it difficult to hear the other point of view as everyone fought back.
• As the ship sank, the captain, realizing his imminent demise, spewed imprecations at the treacherous sea and his doomed fate, leaving the crew in stunned silence.