Abuser

/əˈbjuːzər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person who mistreats or harms another person, often in a repeated manner.
The organization provides support for victims of an abuser.
A person who misuses something, such as a substance or a privilege.
His reputation suffered due to being labeled an abuser of alcohol.
Someone who engages in harmful behavior towards others, especially in a relationship context.
She finally left the abuser and began to rebuild her life.

Etymology

Derived from the verb 'abuse', which comes from Middle English 'abusen', from Old French 'abuser', from Latin 'abusus', meaning 'misuse'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

substance abuser:
A person who misuses drugs or alcohol.
child abuser:
A person who physically, emotionally, or sexually abuses a child.
domestic abuser:
A person who mistreats their partner or family member in a domestic setting.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

player
He's just a player, always looking for someone to take advantage of.
toxic
That relationship is so toxic; she needs to get away from her abuser.