Pronunciation: [kˈɜːst] (IPA) 
The word "curst" is commonly misspelled as "cursed". However, the correct spelling is "curst", which is pronounced /kɜːrst/ according to IPA transcription. The "-st" ending in "curst" is a rare archaic suffix used to indicate the past tense of verbs, and specifically refers to the past participle form of "curse". It is important to use the correct spelling and pronunciation of words in order to communicate clearly and effectively.
Curst is an adjective used to describe someone who is frequently or habitually bad-tempered, irritable, or foul-mouthed. The term is primarily archaic or used in informal contexts today. Its origin dates back to Middle English, where it initially referred to someone who was subject to a curse or had a curse placed upon them. It derived from the Old English word "cursian," meaning "to curse."
A person described as curst exhibits a disposition prone to annoyance, anger, or grumbling, often expressing their dissatisfaction through harsh and venomous language. Such an individual is habitually quick-tempered and tends to engage in verbal quarrels or use offensive and abusive words to convey their displeasure, often without strong justification. Their speech may be marked by a profusion of curses, expletives, or imprecations, reflecting their deeply ingrained irritability.
It is worth noting that the word "curst" is chiefly employed in literary or historical contexts, such as Shakespearean poetry or older writings. Due to its limited contemporary usage, it may be unfamiliar to many individuals today. However, when encountered, it generally conveys a clear image of a person who is chronically ill-tempered, prone to cursing or using offensive language, and often difficult to deal with on an interpersonal level.
Ill-tempered; cross-grained; hence.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word curst originated from the Middle English word cursed which was derived from the Old French word curs meaning cursed or damned. The Old French term, in turn, came from the Latin word cursum meaning cursed or accursed. The English term curst has been used since the 16th century to mean ill-tempered, shrewish, or possessed by an evil spirit.
