Entry Word: abuse

Function: noun

Meaning: 1 harsh insulting language <spectators hurled abuse at the visiting team>

Synonyms fulmination, invective, vitriol, vituperation

Related Words blasphemy, curse, execration, imprecation, malediction, profanity; epithet, insult, put-down, slur; expletive, swearword; aspersion, bad-mouthing, belittlement, disparagement, revilement, vilification; castigation, chastisement, criticism, excoriation, opprobrium, rebuke, reprimand, reproof; broadside, diatribe, harangue, polemic, tirade

Near Antonyms acclaim, applause, commendation, praise; compliments, congratulations, endearments, felicitations; adulation, blarney, flattery, overpraise, soft soap

2 incorrect or improper use <the furniture received a lot of abuse from the ten kids in the family> — see misuse