Main Entry:

abu·sive

Pronunciation:

\ə-ˈbyü-siv also -ziv\

Function:

adjective

Date:

1583

1: characterized by wrong or improper use or action ; especially : corrupt <abusive financial practices>2 a: using harsh insulting language <an angry and abusive crowd> b: characterized by or serving for abuse <abusive language> c: physically injurious <abusive behavior>

— abu·sive·ly adverb

— abu·sive·ness noun