The meaning of ABUSIVE is using harsh, insulting language. How to use abusive in a sentence.

ABUSIVE definition: 1. using rude and offensive words: 2. using physical violence or emotional cruelty: 3. using rude…. Learn more.

Nov 17, 2025 · Emotional abuse involves manipulation, control, verbal abuse, or other unhealthy behaviors. Learn how to recognize and deal with abusive relationships.

1. using, containing, or characterized by harshly or coarsely insulting language. 2. treating badly or injuriously; mistreating, esp. physically: his abusive treatment of the horse. 3. wrongly used; corrupt: …

Someone who is abusive behaves in a cruel and violent way towards other people. He became violent and abusive toward Ben's mother. One in eight women lives in an abusive relationship. ...her cruel …

Definition of abusive adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Abusive definition: Characterized by improper or wrongful use.

Jan 14, 2026 · abusive (comparative more abusive, superlative most abusive) Prone to treat someone badly by coarse, insulting words or other maltreatment; vituperative; reproachful; scurrilous.

Abusive refers to a behavior that is cruel, violent, and repeatedly harmful, either physically, emotionally, sexually or verbally towards another person or entity.

a•bu•sive (ə byo̅o̅′ siv), adj. using, containing, or characterized by harshly or coarsely insulting language: an abusive author; abusive remarks. treating badly or injuriously; mistreating, esp. physically: his …