misusage

[ mis-yoo-sij, -zij ]

noun

1. wrong or improper usage, as of words.
2. bad or abusive treatment.

Word History and Origins

Origin of misusage¹

First recorded in 1525–35; mis- ¹ + usage

Example Sentences

Alas (quoth she deep sighing) why did I enter into anie mention of my owne misusage?

From Project Gutenberg

He had been grossly misused on the occasion, and had escaped from such misusage by the only means in his power.

From Project Gutenberg

Such a misusage of the flag occurred, for example, at Belmont.

From Project Gutenberg

Distrust and selfishness came from misusage; they were man's defence against extortion.

From Project Gutenberg