Definition

To call down a curse or invoke misfortune upon someone or something.

Example

In a moment of anger, he began to imprecate his enemies.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I can't believe what happened at the party last night.

I know, right? It was so awkward when he started to imprecate everyone.

Exactly! I thought we were just having fun, not cursing each other.

Yeah, it really put a damper on the mood.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Imprecate is formed from "im-" (meaning not or into) and "precari" (meaning to pray or to entreat). The word describes the act of invoking evil or misfortune upon someone, essentially praying for their harm.

Memory Tip

Think of 'praying' ('precari') for something negative or harmful ('im-') to happen to someone — that's what imprecate means.

Visually Confused Words