詛

A phono-semantic compound consisting of:

言 (speech) — semantic component, indicates spoken words or declarations;

且 — phonetic component supplying the sound (저 / zǔ).

The character originally referred to uttering ritual curses or oaths aloud.

Semantic development:

- ritual curse;

- spoken imprecation;

- dath or solemn vow.

The meanings reflect ancient practices where spoken words were believed to possess supernatural power.

In Korean, 詛 mainly appears in literary or historical contexts.

저주 (詛呪) — curse

저맹 (詛盟) — oath or sworn covenant (classical term)

詛 emphasizes formal or ritualized verbal curses.

Related characters:

呪 — curse; incantation

誓 — oath

罵 — to curse verbally