Clues for the word "ABUSE"

We've had 104 crossword clues used for this word, and seen it 331 times in crosswords. It was last seen in Mirror Daily crossword on May 24, 2026.

Definition of abuse

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.
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.
v. t. - To revile; to reproach coarsely; to disparage.
v. t. - To dishonor.
v. t. - To violate; to ravish.
v. t. - To deceive; to impose on.
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.
v. t. - Physical ill treatment; injury.
v. t. - A corrupt practice or custom; offense; crime; fault; as, the abuses in the civil service.
v. t. - Vituperative words; coarse, insulting speech; abusive language; virulent condemnation; reviling.
v. t. - Violation; rape; as, abuse of a female child.