abuse
abused
1.
2.
3.
4.
noun
(ə-bysʹ)
1. Improper use or handling; misuse: drug abuse.
2. Physical maltreatment: spousal abuse.
3. A corrupt practice or custom: abuse of power.
4. Insulting or coarse language: verbal abuse.
[Middle English abusen, from Old French abuser, from abus, improper use, from Latin abūsus past participle of abūtī, to misuse : ab-, away. See
abus
Synonyms: