Abuse Definition & Meaning
abuse
- noun
- cruel or inhumane treatment; "the child showed signs of physical abuse"
- 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"
- improper or excessive use; "alcohol abuse"; "the abuse of public funds"
- verb
- treat badly; "This boss abuses his workers"; "She is always stepping on others to get ahead"
- 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"
- use foul or abusive language towards; "The actress abused the policeman who gave her a parking ticket"; "The angry mother shouted at the teacher"
- use wrongly or improperly or excessively; "Her husband often abuses alcohol"; "while she was pregnant, she abused drugs"
"Abuse" in song lyrics
See how abuse is used in real songs:
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"My favorite DJ got those and 6 extra L's to abuse"
7L & Esoteric f/ Jawn P, Raydar Ellis — Boston Garden Rap -
"And I don't drink liquor it causes spousal abuse"
Akrobatik — Hypocrite -
"1 secret kept, 3 years of abuse"
Alexipharmic — Atefah
Words that rhyme with abuse
Usage tips for "abuse"
Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "abuse" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for abuse to find words that pair well.
Use "abuse" in a verse
Now that you know what "abuse" means, try using it in your own lyrics:
Generate a verse