abuse
/ʌbjˈus/
Explore definitions, synonyms, and language insights of abuse
Definitions
Noun
cruel or inhumane treatment; "the child showed signs of physical abuse"
Noun
a rude expression intended to offend or hurt; "when a student made a stupid mistake he spared them no abuse"; "they yelled insults at the visiting team"
Noun
improper or excessive use; "alcohol abuse"; "the abuse of public funds"
Verb
treat badly; "This boss abuses his workers"; "She is always stepping on others to get ahead"
Verb
change the inherent purpose or function of something; "Don''t abuse the system"; "The director of the factory misused the funds intended for the health care of his workers"
Verb
use foul or abusive language towards; "The actress abused the policeman who gave her a parking ticket"; "The angry mother shouted at the teacher"
Verb
use wrongly or improperly or excessively; "Her husband often abuses alcohol"; "while she was pregnant, she abused drugs"
Synonyms
blackguard
clapperclaw
contumely
ill-treat
ill-treatment
ill-usage
ill-use
insult
maltreat
maltreatment
mistreat
misuse
pervert
revilement
shout
step
vilification
More General Terms
assail
assault
attack
discourtesy
disrespect
do by
employment
exercise
expend
handle
lash out
mistreatment
round
snipe
treat
usage
use
utilisation
utilization