Associations to the word «Misuse»

Wiktionary

MISUSE, noun. An incorrect, improper or unlawful use of something.
MISUSE, verb. (transitive) To use (something) incorrectly.
MISUSE, verb. (transitive) To abuse or mistreat (something or someone).
MISUSE, verb. (obsolete) (transitive) To abuse verbally, to insult.

Dictionary definition

MISUSE, noun. Improper or excessive use; "alcohol abuse"; "the abuse of public funds".
MISUSE, verb. Apply to a wrong thing or person; apply badly or incorrectly; "The words are misapplied in this context"; "You are misapplying the name of this religious group".
MISUSE, verb. Change the inherent purpose or function of something; "Don't abuse the system"; "The director of the factory misused the funds intended for the health care of his workers".

Wise words

We should have a great fewer disputes in the world if words were taken for what they are, the signs of our ideas only, and not for things themselves.
John Locke