Abuse is a term that is commonly used in different contexts. It can refer to physical, emotional, or psychological mistreatment of an individual, group, or animal. The term abused is the past participle of abuse, and it is used to describe something or someone that has been subjected to mistreatment or harm.
Definitions
The term abused can be defined in different ways depending on the context in which it is used. In general, it refers to something or someone that has been subjected to mistreatment, harm, or violence. It can also refer to the misuse or overuse of something, such as drugs or alcohol.
Origin
The term abused has its origin in the Latin word “abusus,” which means “misuse” or “waste.” It was first used in English in the 15th century to refer to the misuse or overuse of something. Over time, its meaning expanded to include the mistreatment or harm of individuals or animals.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, abused means “treated with cruelty or violence.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “subjected to harmful treatment or use.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “treated badly, especially by being hurt physically or sexually.”
Associations
The term abused is often associated with vulnerable individuals or groups, such as children, women, or animals. It is also associated with different forms of mistreatment, such as physical, emotional, or psychological abuse.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of abused include mistreated, maltreated, ill-treated, and victimized. These terms all refer to someone or something that has been subjected to harm or mistreatment.
Antonyms
Antonyms of abused include cared for, protected, respected, and cherished. These terms refer to the opposite of abuse, which is to treat someone or something with kindness, compassion, and respect.
The same root words
The root word of abused is “abuse.” Other words that share the same root include abusive, abuser, and abusee. These words all relate to the mistreatment or harm of someone or something.
Example Sentences
- The animal had been abused by its previous owner and was now in need of medical attention.
- The child was being abused by their stepfather and needed to be removed from the home.
- The drug addict had abused their body for years and was now suffering from serious health problems.
- The employee was being abused by their boss and needed to report the behavior to HR.
- The historical monument had been abused by tourists who had carved their names into the stone.