Meaning of 'abuse'

noun

cruel or inhumane treatment

Example: "the child showed signs of physical abuse"

Synonyms: maltreatment

noun

improper or excessive use

Example: "alcohol abuse"

Synonyms: misuse

noun

a rude expression intended to offend or hurt

Example: "When a student made a mistake the teacher spared them no abuse."

Synonyms: insult revilement contumely vilification

verb

to change the inherent purpose or function of something

Example: "I was warned not to abuse the system."

Synonyms: misuse pervert

verb

to use wrongly or improperly or excessively

Example: "You've abused my generosity more times than I should have allowed."

verb

to use foul or abusive language towards

Example: "I abused the police officer who issued the parking ticket."

Synonyms: shout blackguard clapperclaw

verb

to treat badly

Example: "This boss abuses their workers for no discernible reason since it is counter-productive."

Synonyms: step