verbal abuse

noun

: harsh and insulting language directed at a person
She was a victim of verbal abuse.

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Parents said players sought therapy, endured panic attacks and attempted to hurt themselves as a result of verbal abuse and bullying. Greg Riddle, Dallas News, 12 Apr. 2023 The incident violated a zero-tolerance policy instituted by the university following an investigation into accusations of physical and verbal abuse made by former player Neil Reed, who died of a heart attack in 2012. Michael Marot, BostonGlobe.com, 3 Apr. 2023 The incident violated a zero-tolerance policy the university instituted after an investigation into accusations of physical and verbal abuse made by former player Neil Reed, who died of a heart attack in 2012. Michael Marot, Chicago Tribune, 3 Apr. 2023 Activist Luis Valentan battles from a Pasadena radio booth against wage theft, verbal abuse and other ways that immigrant day laborers are exploited. Elvia Limón, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2023 Homme’s two sons had previously filed for temporary restraining orders from him in 2021, citing both physical and verbal abuse as well as driving under the influence, though the court denied those requests. Ethan Millman, Rolling Stone, 28 Mar. 2023 This may also involve sleep deprivation, waking you with relentless verbal abuse. Abigail Van Buren, oregonlive, 23 Mar. 2023 The Gators took a step back in 2022-23 after reaching the NCAA Tournament while Finley served as interim head coach after Cam Newbauer resigned in July 2021 amid allegations of verbal abuse of players. Edgar Thompson, Orlando Sentinel, 22 Mar. 2023 Cam Newbauer resigned during the summer of 2021 after allegation of mental and verbal abuse. Edgar Thompson, Orlando Sentinel, 1 Mar. 2023 See More

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'verbal abuse.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Dictionary Entries Near verbal abuse

Cite this Entry

“Verbal abuse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/verbal%20abuse. Accessed 28 May. 2023.

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