Everything that is contrary to good order established by usage. Departure from reasonable use; immoderate or improper use. Physical or mental maltreatment. Misuse. Deception.
To wrong in speech, reproach coarsely, disparage, revile, and malign.
ABUSE. Every thing which is contrary to good order established by usage. Merl. Rep. h.t. Among the civilians, abuse has another signification; which is the destruction of the substance of a thing in using it. For example, the borrower of wine or grain, abuses the article lent by using it, because he cannot enjoy it without consuming it. Leg ; El. Dr. Rom. Sec. 414. 416.