• noun:   a rude expression intended to offend or hurt

  Example: "When a student made a stupid mistake he spared them no abuse"

• noun:   improper or excessive use
• noun:   cruel or inhumane treatment
• verb:   use foul or abusive language towards

  Example: "The actress abused the policeman who gave her a parking ticket"

• verb:   treat badly

  Example: "This boss abuses his workers"

• verb:   change the inherent purpose or function of something

  Example: "Don't abuse the system"

Related words...