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self-abuse

American  
[self-uh-byoos, self-] / ˈsɛlf əˈbyus, ˌsɛlf- /

noun

  1. reproach or blame of oneself.

  2. abuse of one's health.

  3. masturbation.


self-abuse British  

noun

  1. disparagement or misuse of one's own abilities, etc

  2. a censorious term for masturbation See masturbation

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of self-abuse

First recorded in 1595–1605

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.

With “In the Valley,” Rash presents a catalog of broken people trying to survive beneath the weight of their self-abuse, often through drugs or alcohol — or just the abuses the world foists upon them.

From New York Times

At age 4, Kara started suffering fits of self-abuse, often smashing her hand into her face.

From Washington Times

IMO. self-abuse is a lesser known aspect of elder abuse.

From New York Times

Facebook Twitter Pinterest Feuerstein said that chimpanzees held in captivity for research can exhibit behaviors similar to PTSD, including ‘self-abuse, rocking back and forth, and increased aggression’.

From The Guardian

Make it for everyone Unlike misanthropy or self-abuse, tea-making is not a solitary pursuit.

From The Guardian