misuse
misuse Lexical Profile
misuse Game Scores & Validity
• noun
The wrong, improper, or dishonest use of something.
"The audit uncovered a widespread misuse of public funds by the former administration."
Harsh, unfair, or cruel treatment of a person or animal.
"Animal welfare laws are designed to prevent the neglect and misuse of domestic pets."
• verb
To use something in the wrong way or for a dishonest purpose.
"The official was accused of misusing his authority to grant contracts to family members."
To treat a person or animal badly, unfairly, or cruelly.
"Throughout the novel, the orphan is continually misused by his callous guardians."
Word Nuance & Usage
As a noun, the final consonant is pronounced as a voiceless /s/ (rhyming with 'loose'), whereas as a verb it is pronounced as a voiced /z/ (rhyming with 'lose').
• Rhymes for misuse
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Dating back to the late 14th century, the word was formed in Middle English from the prefix 'mis-' and 'use', modeled on Old French 'mesuser', from 'mes-' (badly, wrongly) and 'user' (to use).