̘. ̈n.əˈbju:s v. & n. --v.tr. 1
use to
bad effect or
for a bad
purpose;
misuse (abused
his position of power). 2
insult verbally. 3
maltreat. --n. 1 a
incorrect or
improper use (the abuse of power). b an
instance of
this. 2 insulting
language (a
torrent of abuse). 3
unjust or
corrupt practice. 4 maltreatment of a
person (child abuse). øøabuser n. [ME f. OF abus (n.), abuser (v.) f. L abusus, abuti (as
AB-, uti usUSE)]