Curses, also known as hexes, jinxes, and spells, are often associated with magic and the supernatural. A curse can be defined as a profane or evil utterance, meant to bring about harm or misfortune to someone or something. However, there are several other synonymous terms used to describe this act of wishing ill will on someone, such as an oath, damnation, malediction, or anathema. Each of these words carries a slightly different connotation or cultural context, but they all describe the act of using language to invoke harm or punishment upon someone or something. Regardless of the word used, it is universally understood that curses are intended to bring harm, rather than good.