a corrupt practice or custom. improper or excessive use or treatment: MISUSE. language that condemns or vilifies usually unjustly, intemperately, and angrily. physical maltreatment. obsolete: a deceitful act: DECEPTION. to put to a wrong or improper use. to use excessively. to use or treat so as to injure or damage: MALTREAT. to attack in words: REVILE. obsolete: DECEIVE.