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ABUSIVE

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a⋅bu⋅sive

  [uh-byoo-siv]
Use ABUSIVE in a Sentence
–adjective
1. using, containing, or characterized by harshly or coarsely insulting language: an abusive author; abusive remarks.
2. treating badly or injuriously; mistreating, esp. physically: his abusive handling of the horse.
3. wrongly used; corrupt: an abusive exercise of power.
Origin:
1575–85; < LL abūsīvus. See abuse, -ive

Related forms:
a⋅bu⋅sive⋅ly, adverb
a⋅bu⋅sive⋅ness, noun
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
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a·bu·sive   (ə-byōō'sĭv, -zĭv)   
adj.  

  1. Characterized by improper or wrongful use: abusive utilization of public funds.

  2. Using or containing insulting or coarse language: finally reprimanded the abusive colleague.

  3. Causing physical injury to another: abusive punishment.

  4. Relating to or practicing sexual abuse.

a·bu'sive·ly adv., a·bu'sive·ness n.
The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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Legal Dictionary

Main Entry: abu·sive
Pronunciation: &-'byü-siv, -ziv
Function: adjective
1 : characterized by wrong or improper use or action <abusive tax shelters>
2 : inflicting verbal or physical abuse <abusive parents> —abu·sive·ly adverb
Merriam-Webster's Dictionary of Law, © 1996 Merriam-Webster, Inc.
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