abusive

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. adjective expressing offensive reproach
  2. adjective characterized by physical or psychological maltreatment

Etymology

First attested in the 1530s. From French abusif, from Latin abūsīvus, from abusus + -ivus (“-ive”). Equivalent to abuse + -ive.

In classic literature

Synonyms

opprobrious, scurrilous

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