Main Entry: ¹mis·use

Pronunciation: \-ˈyüz\

Function: transitive verb

Etymology: Middle English, partly from mis- + usen to use; partly from Middle French mesuser to abuse, from Old French, from mes- + user to use

Date: 14th century

1 : to use incorrectly : misapply <misused his talents>
2 : abuse, mistreat <misused his servants>

— mis·us·er noun