Meaning & use

cuss

verb·Everyday

Informal term meaning to swear or use offensive language, usually out of anger or frustration.

See it in a sentence

He cussed loudly after stubbing his toe on the coffee table again.

She warned the kids not to cuss in front of their grandmother.

A note on using this word

Cuss is casual American English; 'curse' or 'swear' sound more neutral in formal writing.

Words with a similar meaning

curseswear

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Another way to use it

2. noun

Informal term for a person, especially one who is stubborn or difficult.

Grandpa is a cranky old cuss, but everyone loves him anyway.

Make it your own

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