cursive

[ kur-siv ]

adjective

1. (of handwriting) in flowing strokes with the letters joined together.
2. Printing. in flowing strokes resembling handwriting.

noun

1. a cursive letter or character.
2. Printing. a style of typeface simulating handwriting.

cursive

/ ˈkɜːsɪv /

adjective

1. of or relating to handwriting in which letters are formed and joined in a rapid flowing style
2. printing of or relating to typefaces that resemble handwriting

noun

1. a cursive letter or printing type
2. a manuscript written in cursive letters

Derived Forms

• ˈcursively, adverb

Other Words From

• cursive·ly adverb
• cursive·ness noun
• non·cursive adjective
• non·cursive·ly adverb
• trans·cursive adjective
• trans·cursive·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of cursive¹

1775–85; < Medieval Latin cursīvus flowing (said of penmanship), equivalent to Latin curs ( us ) (past participle of currere to run) + -īvus -ive

Word History and Origins

Origin of cursive¹

C18: from Medieval Latin cursīvus running, ultimately from Latin currere to run

Example Sentences

“Etiquette is kind of beside the point. It’s like reading a ransom note and going, ‘This cursive is just so lovely.

From Salon

Calligraphy, a centuries-old art form, is seeing a surge of interest, including among young people more familiar with coding than cursive.

From New York Times

“You’ll find no wrongs or rights inside this box, only mirrors for reflection,” she etched in loopy cursive inside the lid.

From Los Angeles Times

As visitors enter and lie down, these mobiles spin slowly, catching light and casting morphing shadows of cursive E’s and wishbones.

From New York Times

Street signs seem created by Hobby Lobby — Art Deco black font on a white background in Maywood, white cursive on blue in Huntington Park, white azaleas in South Gate.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• comfortable
• effortless
• peaceful
• pleasant
• quiet
• secure
• slow
• smooth
• soft
• successful