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

Abusive is an adjective used to describe a person who abuses a person or an animal—mistreats and causes harm to them. It can also be used to describe such a person’s actions.

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: …

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

Apr 7, 2026 · Abusive conduct, in legal terms, generally means a pattern of behavior intended to control, harm, or intimidate another person through physical violence, emotional manipulation, financial …

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

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 …

3 days ago · Abuse takes many forms and can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. Understanding what abusive behavior looks like, how it affects mental health, and what support is …

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 people don’t consider how their actions might be harmful to another person—or they simply don’t care. This could look like: treating you as their property, telling you how to feel, repeatedly …