abuses; abused; abusing
1
: to treat (a person or animal) in a harsh or harmful way
He abused [=mistreated] his wife both mentally and physically.
abuse a dog
He was accused of sexually/physically/psychologically abusing a child.
2
: to use or treat (something) in a way that causes damage
He abused his body with years of heavy drinking.
He had abused his first car by not taking care of it.
3
: to use (something) wrongly
abuse [=misuse] a privilege
She abused her friend's trust.
a senator who abuses his power
He abused my confidence by letting this secret be known.
4
: to use too much of (a drug, alcohol, etc.)
a drug that is abused by many people
He was known to abuse alcohol.
5
: to attack (someone) in words
The fans were verbally abusing the referee.
plural abuses
1
: the act or practice of abusing someone or something: such as
a
: harmful treatment of a person or animal
He subjected his wife to physical and emotional abuse.
child abuse
sexual abuse
The government has been accused of human rights abuses. [=of violating the basic rights of people by treating them wrongly]
b
: the use or treatment of something in a way that causes damage
his abuse [=mistreatment] of his body through poor eating habits
These toys can stand up to a lot of abuse. [=can be handled roughly without being damaged]
c
: the act or practice of using something wrongly
the governor's abuse [=misuse] of his power/privileges
the buying of votes and other election abuses
d
: the act or practice of using too much of a drug, alcohol, etc.
abuse of alcohol
drug/substance abuse
2
: harsh and insulting language
She was subjected to every term of abuse her boss could think of.
a torrent/stream of verbal abuse
The prisoner hurled/shouted/screamed abuse at the judge.
Cite this Entry
“Abuse.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/abuse. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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