Word Meaning

abuse definition and meaning

v. t. To put to a wrong use; to misapply; to misuse; to put to a bad use; to use for a wrong purpose or end; to pervert; as, to abuse inherited gold; to make an excessive use of; as, to abuse one's authority.
v. t. To use ill; to maltreat; to act injuriously to; to punish or to tax excessively; to hurt; as, to abuse prisoners, to abuse one's powers, one's patience.
v. t. To revile; to reproach coarsely; to disparage.
v. t. To dishonor.
v. t. To violate; to ravish.
v. t. To deceive; to impose on.
v. t. Improper treatment or use; application to a wrong or bad purpose; misuse; as, an abuse of our natural powers; an abuse of civil rights, or of privileges or advantages; an abuse of language.
v. t. Physical ill treatment; injury.
v. t. A corrupt practice or custom; offense; crime; fault; as, the abuses in the civil service.
v. t. Vituperative words; coarse, insulting speech; abusive language; virulent condemnation; reviling.
v. t. Violation; rape; as, abuse of a female child.

Crossword clues for abuse

- Corruptly exploit
- Cruelty
- Ill-treat
- Ill-treatment
- Improperly exploit
- Insult
- Maltreat
- Mistreatment
- Offensive remarks
- Rough handling
- Shout insults at
- Speak offensively to
- Vilify