English dictionary

abuse

/@/'b/ju/z/

Definitions, examples, synonyms and antonyms from WordNet 3.0.

noun

cruel or inhumane treatment

noun.act

Examples
The child showed signs of physical abuse.

Synonyms ill-treatment ill-usage maltreatment

Source: WordNet 3.0
a rude expression intended to offend or hurt

noun.communication

Examples
When a student made a stupid mistake he spared them no abuse.

Synonyms contumely insult revilement vilification

Source: WordNet 3.0
improper or excessive use

noun.act

Examples
Alcohol abuse.

The abuse of public funds.

Synonyms misuse

Source: WordNet 3.0
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.

noun

Source: webster1913

treat badly

verb.social

Examples
This boss abuses his workers.

Synonyms ill-treat ill-use maltreat mistreat step

Source: WordNet 3.0
change the inherent purpose or function of something

verb.change

Examples
Don't abuse the system.

Synonyms misuse pervert

Source: WordNet 3.0
use foul or abusive language towards

verb.communication

Examples
The actress abused the policeman who gave her a parking ticket.

Synonyms blackguard clapperclaw shout

Source: WordNet 3.0
use wrongly or improperly or excessively

verb.change

Examples
Her husband often abuses alcohol.

While she was pregnant, she abused drugs.

Source: WordNet 3.0
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.

verb

Source: webster1913