Definitions for the word "abuse" from multiple English dictionaries.
1. v. t.
To put to a wrong use; to misapply; to misuse; to put to a bad use; to use for a wrong purpose or end; to pervert; as, to abuse inherited gold; to make an excessive use of; as, to abuse one's authority.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
2. v. t.
To use ill; to maltreat; to act injuriously to; to punish or to tax excessively; to hurt; as, to abuse prisoners, to abuse one's powers, one's patience.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
3. v. t.
To revile; to reproach coarsely; to disparage.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
4. v. t.
To dishonor.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
5. v. t.
To violate; to ravish.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
6. v. t.
To deceive; to impose on.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
7. v. t.
Improper treatment or use; application to a wrong or bad purpose; misuse; as, an abuse of our natural powers; an abuse of civil rights, or of privileges or advantages; an abuse of language.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
8. v. t.
Physical ill treatment; injury.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
9. v. t.
A corrupt practice or custom; offense; crime; fault; as, the abuses in the civil service.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
10. v. t.
Vituperative words; coarse, insulting speech; abusive language; virulent condemnation; reviling.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
11. v. t.
Violation; rape; as, abuse of a female child.
Source: The 1913 Webster Unabridged Dictionary, 1913
12. v.
(-sing) 1 use improperly, misuse. 2 insult verbally. 3 maltreat. n. 1 misuse. 2 insulting language. 3 unjust or corrupt practice. 4 maltreatment (child abuse). abuser n. [latin: related to *use]
Source: Oxford English Dictionary, 1884
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Additional Info
This page provides a list of definitions and meanings for "abuse" from various historical English dictionaries. By displaying multiple definitions, you can compare and
contrast different meanings and nuances of a word, phrase, or slang. You can also see the changes in meaning of "abuse" over time by viewing the definitions from different dictionaries published at different times in history.
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Important Notes
The definitions for words, phrases and slang (such as "abuse") in this dictionary are sourced from multiple sources - including sources historical in nature. The sources may contain outdated, inaccurate or even offensive information when viewed from a modern context. It is important to consider the date the dictionary was published and view such content from a historical perspective and consider that the meanings, interpretations and usage of words may have evolved over time. Users should cross-reference this information with contemporary sources for a more complete understanding.
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