v.
/
əˈbjuːz/
- use to bad effect or for a bad purpose.
- treat with cruelty or violence.
▸assault sexually.
- address in an insulting and offensive way.
n.
/
əˈbjuːs/
- the improper use of something.
- cruel and violent treatment.
▸sexual assault.
- insulting and offensive language.
Derivative
Etymology
ME: via OFr. from L. abus-, abuti ‘misuse’, from ab- ‘away’ + uti ‘to use’.