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Definition of maltreatment

maltreatment

/mælˈtriːt.mənt/
mal · treat · ment
Plural:maltreatments
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maltreatment Lexical Profile

maltreatment Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Cruel, rough, or neglectful treatment of a person or animal; abuse.

Example

"Animal welfare organizations work tirelessly to rescue pets from neglect and maltreatment."

2

Improper, careless, or damaging handling of an object, material, or system.

Example

"The antique violin showed obvious signs of maltreatment after years of improper storage in a damp basement."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for maltreatment

• Nearby Words

maltipoo
maltreat
maltreater
maltreatment
malty
malus
malva

Word Origin & Etymology

Entered English in the early 18th century, either formed directly from 'maltreat' plus the suffix '-ment' or borrowed from French 'maltraitement'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Maltreatment. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/maltreatment
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