Laxi Dictionary

English Dictionary

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Definition abuse in British English

abuse verb

[transitive] verb
/əˈbjuːz/
1

to treat someone in a cruel or violent way

Example

Prisoners were regularly abused by their guards.

Synonyms and related words
abuse mistreat oppress
1.1

to have sex with someone who is unable to refuse

Example

A high percentage of abusive parents were themselves abused as children.

Synonyms and related words
rape molest abuse
2

to use something in a bad, dishonest, or harmful way

Example

They were accused of abusing their power to keep prices artificially high.

Example

Those with access to private information must not abuse that trust.

Synonyms and related words
wear out throw away waste
2.1

to use alcohol or illegal drugs in a way that is harmful to your health

Synonyms and related words
drink abuse sober up abuse be jacked up come down
3

to speak to someone in an angry, offensive way

Example

He was fined £10,000 for verbally abusing the umpire.

Synonyms and related words
swear curse blaspheme lash out tear into abuse
Definition abuse in British English