abuse
verb (used with object)
to use wrongly or improperly; misuse.
abused
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past participleof abuse.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
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past tense formof abuse.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
abuseverb (used with object)to use wrongly or improperly; misuse.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"David Rush abused his position and betrayed the public trust and should be held fully accountable for his actions," CIA Director John Ratcliffe said in a statement.
From Barron's ● Oct. 6, 2026
The administration says it seeks assurances from those countries that the deported persons will not be not be abused or persecuted, but it refuses hearings for individuals.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 4, 2026
It’s a power that is easily mishandled and abused, but then there are authors such as Charles Dickens, who knew how to harness the full potency of description.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 28, 2026
The Football Association of Ireland is investigating whether forward Adam Idah was racially abused by Israel supporters during Sunday's 3-0 Uefa Nations League victory for the Republic of Ireland.
From BBC ● Sep. 28, 2026
Maybe we would look harder for solutions to caring for the disabled, the abused, the neglected, and the traumatized.
From "Just Mercy" by Bryan Stevenson
