mistreat

/mɪsˈtriːt/

Definitions

1. verb

to treat someone or something unfairly or cruelly; to abuse or ill-use someone or something

“The manager was accused of mistreating his employees, leading to a decline in morale.”

2. verb

to fail to treat someone or something with the care or respect that is due; to neglect or be careless with someone or something

“She felt that her husband was mistreating their dog by not providing enough exercise.”

3. noun

an act or instance of treating someone or something unfairly or cruelly

“The mistreatment of the prisoners was a major scandal.”

Synonyms

  • abuse
  • exploit
  • ill-use
  • neglect

Antonyms

  • care
  • cure
  • protect
  • treat