Curse

A curse is the effective action of some power, distinguished solely by the quality of adversity that it brings. A curse may also be said to result from a spell or prayer, imprecation or execration, or other imposition by magic or witchcraft, asking that a god, natural force, or spirit bring misfortune to someone.

The deliberate levying of curses is often part of the practice of magic, taking place at the boundary between organized religion and folkloric customs.