The word "cur" has several meanings:
- As a noun, "cur" primarily refers to a mongrel dog, especially one that is considered worthless, unfriendly, or aggressive. It can also denote any vicious or mixed-breed dog. Historically, it described a specific type of dog used by cattle drovers in England, now extinct. The term is derived from Old Norse "kurra," meaning to growl or grumble.
- "Cur" can be used figuratively as an insult for a mean, cowardly, or despicable person.
- As an abbreviation, "cur" stands for currency or current.
- In Latin, "cūr" means "why" or "for what reason".
So, depending on context, "cur" can mean a type of mongrel dog, a derogatory term for a person, an abbreviation, or a Latin word meaning "why."
