Maltreatment

/ˌmɒltˈtrɪtmənt/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The act of treating someone badly or cruelly, especially in a way that causes harm or suffering.
The reports of maltreatment in the orphanage drew the attention of child welfare organizations.
Mistreatment or abuse, particularly in the context of care for vulnerable individuals such as children or animals.
Animal maltreatment is a serious offense that can lead to harsh penalties for the perpetrators.
Neglect or failure to provide proper care, support, or treatment to a person or group.
The elderly residents in the facility experienced maltreatment due to the staff's negligence.

Etymology

The prefix 'mal-' meaning 'bad' combined with 'treatment', originating from Middle English.

Common Phrases and Expressions

child maltreatment:
Abuse or neglect of children.
domestic maltreatment:
Abuse occurring within a domestic setting, typically in intimate relationships.
institutional maltreatment:
Abuse that occurs within an institutional setting.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

bad vibes
He gave me some bad vibes when he talked about his past maltreatment.
rough treatment
That job sounded like rough treatment; I won't apply there.