Want to say maltreat differently? Here are other words for maltreat and its similar synonyms and opposite words to say in unique way.
Meaning of maltreat
to treat someone or something badly or cruelly
Etymology of maltreat
The word "maltreat" has its roots in the Old French words "mal" meaning "badly" or "wrongly" and "traiter" meaning "to treat", which is derived from the Latin "tractare" meaning "to handle" or "to manage"
The word has been used in the English language since the 15th century to describe the act of treating someone or something badly or cruelly
Synonyms
abuse
mistreat
ill-treat
maltuse
misuse
mistreatment
ill-usage
wrong
injure
harm
hurt
damage
impair
deteriorate
weaken
enfeeble
debilitate
cripple
maim
disable
torment
torture
afflict
oppress
persecute
tyrannize
bully
intimidate
coerce
extort
exploit
manipulate
neglect
overlook
disregard
ignore
slight
snub
insult
offend
outrage
violate
transgress
profane
desecrate
blaspheme
Definitions
- to treat someone or something badly or cruelly, often in a way that is deliberate or habitual
- * to use or handle something in a way that is rough or unskilled
Usage Examples
- The prisoner was maltreated by the guards and denied basic human rights
- * The company was accused of maltreating its employees and ignoring their safety concerns
- * The environment was maltreated by the reckless use of chemicals and pollution
Antonyms
respect
care
kindness
compassion
empathy
sympathy
concern
consideration
tenderness
gentleness
benevolence
generosity
charity
altruism
humanity
courtesy
politeness
civility
graciousness
thoughtfulness
attentiveness
solicitude
benevolence
leniency
tolerance
patience
understanding
forgiveness
mercy
pity
clemency