Cuss

/ˈkʌs/ verb

Definition

To use swear words or curses; to say bad language when angry or frustrated.

Etymology

From Latin 'cursus' (course/curse), evolving through 'curse.' The word 'cuss' is primarily American dialect English, a softened or playful variant of 'curse' that emerged in the 1700s.

Kelly Says

Swearing actually helps people feel less pain—studies show that when people swear while holding their hand in ice water, they can tolerate the cold longer. It's as if the brain treats swearing as an emergency response that triggers pain relief.

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