Dictionary definition · abuse
noun
- cruel or inhumane treatment"the child showed signs of physical abuse"
- a rude expression intended to offend or hurt"when a student made a stupid mistake he spared them no abuse"
- improper or excessive use"alcohol abuse"
verb
- treat badly"This boss abuses his workers"
- change the inherent purpose or function of something"Don't abuse the system"
- use foul or abusive language towards"The actress abused the policeman who gave her a parking ticket"
- use wrongly or improperly or excessively"Her husband often abuses alcohol"
Source: Open English WordNet (CC BY 4.0).