Synonyms for abuse

Noun

1. maltreatment, ill-treatment, ill-usage, abuse, mistreatment

usage: cruel or inhumane treatment

2. abuse, insult, revilement, contumely, vilification, disrespect, discourtesy

usage: a rude expression intended to offend or hurt; "when a student made a stupid mistake he spared them no abuse"; "they yelled insults at the visiting team"

3. misuse, abuse, use, usage, utilization, utilisation, employment, exercise

usage: improper or excessive use

Verb

1. mistreat, maltreat, abuse, ill-use, step, ill-treat, treat, handle, do by

usage: treat badly; "This boss abuses his workers"; "She is always stepping on others to get ahead"

2. pervert, misuse, abuse, use, expend

usage: change the inherent purpose or function of something; "Don't abuse the system"; "The director of the factory misused the funds intended for the health care of his workers"

3. abuse, clapperclaw, blackguard, shout, attack, round, assail, lash out, snipe, assault

usage: use foul or abusive language towards; "The actress abused the policeman who gave her a parking ticket"; "The angry mother shouted at the teacher"