cursive
|cur-sive|
🇺🇸
/ˈkɝsɪv/
🇬🇧
/ˈkɜːsɪv/
running/flowing (handwriting)
Etymology
'cursive' originates from French, specifically the word 'cursif', where the element 'curs-' ultimately comes from Latin 'currere' meaning 'to run'.
'cursive' developed from Latin 'cursivus' (meaning 'running' or 'rapid'), passed into Old/Middle French as 'cursif', and then entered English as 'cursive' with reference to a 'running' or flowing style of writing.
Initially, it meant 'running' (in the sense of moving quickly); over time the sense shifted to describe a 'running' or flowing style of writing, giving the modern meaning related to joined, flowing handwriting.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
handwriting in which the letters are joined together; a flowing, joined script (often taught in schools).
Her cursive is neat and easy to read.
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Adjective 1
written with the characters joined together; having a flowing, connected style.
Write the signature in cursive rather than in block letters.
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Last updated: 2025/11/30 14:33