Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Showing results for verbal abuse. Search instead for Verbal+Abuse.
Synonyms

verbal abuse

American  
[vur-buhl uh-byoos] / ˈvɜr bəl əˈbjus /

noun

  1. speech that is intended to humiliate and intimidate.

    Physical or verbal abuse directed toward patients, families, colleagues, or staff will not be tolerated.


Etymology

Origin of verbal abuse

First recorded in 1740–50


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.

See Examples For:

The 437-page report written by a panel of three judges in 2021 found that the state had shirked its duty to protect Caruana Galizia and subjected her to personal attacks and verbal abuse from politicians.

From Barron's ● Jul. 1, 2026

Albert Manifold was removed as BP chairman with immediate effect due to whistleblower reports of verbal abuse and mishandling information.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 27, 2026

Europe's victory came amid torrents of verbal abuse from a New York crowd which was heavily criticised for its behaviour.

From BBC ● Sep. 29, 2025

June 2021: Pham addressed the torrent of verbal abuse he experienced after getting off to a poor start with the San Diego Padres.

From Los Angeles Times ● Apr. 25, 2025

Although the physician enjoyed the greatest social and professional prestige, he received the most verbal abuse and criticism.

From Medicine in Virginia, 1607-1699 by Thomas Proctor Hughes

Random Word

Spin the wheel and learn a new word!

Get a word

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember new words for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com