Meaning & Definition of Misuse in English

1. Improper or excessive use

• "Alcohol abuse"

• "The abuse of public funds"

1. Apply to a wrong thing or person

• Apply badly or incorrectly

• "The words are misapplied in this context"

• "You are misapplying the name of this religious group"

2. Change the inherent purpose or function of something

• "Don't abuse the system"

• "The director of the factory misused the funds intended for the health care of his workers"