misused Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. verb apply to a wrong thing or person; apply badly or incorrectly
   misuse; misapply.
   
   • The words are misapplied in this context
   • You are misapplying the name of this religious group
2. verb change the inherent purpose or function of something
   misuse; pervert; abuse.
   
   • Don't abuse the system
   • The director of the factory misused the funds intended for the health care of his workers
3. adjective used incorrectly or carelessly or for an improper purpose
   
   • misused words are often laughable but one weeps for misused talents

WordNet