self-abuse

[ self-uh-byoos, self- ]

noun

1. reproach or blame of oneself.
2. abuse of one's health.
3. masturbation.

self-abuse

noun

1. disparagement or misuse of one's own abilities, etc
2. See masturbation
   a censorious term for masturbation See masturbation

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-abuse¹

First recorded in 1595–1605

Example Sentences

The young patients are going crazy, but not because of self-abuse.

From Project Gutenberg

This stimulation sometimes leads to the formation of an evil habit, known as self-abuse.

From Project Gutenberg

Such friendship may degenerate even into a species of self-abuse that is most deplorable.

From Project Gutenberg

Girls who have formed vicious habits are apt to indulge in the practice of self-abuse at night when going to bed.

From Project Gutenberg

The delight in self-sacrifice is in its origin a phase of cruelty; the bad conscience is a will for self-abuse.

From Project Gutenberg