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.
"Right through the ages... those who're righteous, they've always been attacked, abused, accused, killed, imprisoned -- and this is the way it is," he said.
From Barron's ● Oct. 12, 2026
In a news release, CIA Director John Ratcliffe said Rush "abused his position and betrayed the public trust and should be held fully accountable for his actions".
From BBC ● 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
And Petey, not wanting to appear weak and abused in front of Anna, smiled as if he was in on the gag.
From "The Last Last-Day-of-Summer" by Lamar Giles
