abuse meaning and definition

ABUSE noun

Definition of abuse (noun)

1. cruel or inhumane treatment
   • "the child showed signs of physical abuse"
   • synonyms: ill-treatment, ill-usage, maltreatment
2. 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"
   • synonyms: contumely, insult, revilement, vilification
3. improper or excessive use
   • "alcohol abuse"; "the abuse of public funds"
   • synonyms: misuse

ABUSE verb

Definition of abuse (verb)

1. treat badly
   • "This boss abuses his workers"; "She is always stepping on others to get ahead"
   • synonyms: ill-treat, ill-use, maltreat, mistreat, step
2. 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"
   • synonyms: misuse, pervert
3. use foul or abusive language towards
   • "The actress abused the policeman who gave her a parking ticket"; "The angry mother shouted at the teacher"
   • synonyms: blackguard, clapperclaw, shout
4. use wrongly or improperly or excessively
   • "Her husband often abuses alcohol"; "while she was pregnant, she abused drugs"