\Mal`e*dic"tion\, n. [L. maledictio: cf. F.
mal['e]diction. See {Maledicent}.]
A proclaiming of evil against some one; a cursing;
imprecation; a curse or execration; -- opposed to
{benediction}.
      No malediction falls from his tongue.    --Longfellow.
Syn: Cursing; curse; execration; imprecation; denunciation;
     anathema.
Usage: {Malediction}, {Curse}, {Imprecation}, {Execration}.
       Malediction is the most general term, denoting bitter
       reproach, or wishes and predictions of evil. Curse
       implies the desire or threat of evil, declared upon
       oath or in the most solemn manner. Imprecation is
       literally the praying down of evil upon a person.
       Execration is literally a putting under the ban of
       excommunication, a curse which excludes from the
       kingdom of God. In ordinary usage, the last three
       words describe profane swearing, execration being the
       strongest.