abuse
noun
1. cruel or inhumane treatment
- the child showed signs of physical abuse
Similar word(s): maltreatment
Definition categories: act, mistreatment
2. a rude expression intended to offend or hurt
- when a student made a stupid mistake he spared them no abuse
Similar word(s): contumely, insult, revilement, vilification
Definition categories: communication, discourtesy, disrespect
3. improper or excessive use
- alcohol abuse
- the abuse of public funds
Similar word(s): misuse
Definition categories: act, employment, exercise, usage, use, utilisation, utilization
Sentences with abuse as a noun:
- All abuse, whether physical, verbal, psychological or sexual, is bad.
verb
1. treat badly
- This boss abuses his workers
Similar word(s): maltreat, mistreat, step
Definition categories: social, handle, treat
2. change the inherent purpose or function of something
- Don't abuse the system
Similar word(s): misuse, pervert
Definition categories: change, expend, use
3. use foul or abusive language towards
- The actress abused the policeman who gave her a parking ticket
Similar word(s): blackguard, clapperclaw, shout
Definition categories: communication, assail, assault, attack, round, snipe
4. use wrongly or improperly or excessively
- Her husband often abuses alcohol
- while she was pregnant, she abused drugs