definition of
abuse

[1] #1 abuse v. [mistreat, maltreat, ill-use, step, ill-treat] treat badly; "This boss abuses his workers"; "She is always stepping on others to get ahead". wn

[2] #2 abuse v. [pervert, misuse] 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". wn

[3] #3 abuse n. [maltreatment, ill-treatment, ill-usage] cruel or inhumane treatment; "the child showed signs of physical abuse". wn

[4] #4 abuse n. [insult, revilement, contumely, vilification] 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". wn

[5] #5 abuse n. [misuse] improper or excessive use; "alcohol abuse"; "the abuse of public funds". wn