Maltreated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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maltreated
[หmษหltษชหtriหtษชd ]
Definitions
injustice
To treat (a person or animal) cruelly or with violence, especially regularly or repeatedly.
Synonyms
abuse, bully, ill-treat, mistreat.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| maltreated |
This word is often used in formal contexts, particularly in reports or discussions about cases involving neglect or harm, such as in legal documents or social services reports.
|
| abuse |
Abuse is commonly used to describe severe mistreatment, both physical and emotional, especially in contexts related to domestic violence, child protection, or substance abuse. It has a strong negative connotation.
|
| mistreat |
Mistreat is a general term that describes treating someone badly or unfairly. It can be used in various contexts, including personal relationships, work environments, or animal care.
|
| ill-treat |
Ill-treat is often used in a formal or legal context to describe the unjust treatment of individuals or animals, typically less severe than abuse.
|
| bully |
This word is typically used to describe repeated aggressive behavior intended to hurt another person, often in schools, workplaces, or online. It usually refers to behavior among peers.
|
Examples of usage
- He was regularly maltreated by his stepfather.
- The prisoners were maltreated by the guards.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Social Issues
- Maltreatment can occur in various relationships, including familial, social, and institutional contexts.
- It has significant effects on mental health, often leading to long-term psychological trauma.
- Advocacy movements work to raise awareness about maltreatment, promoting better treatment standards in homes and institutions.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that individuals who experience maltreatment in childhood are at a higher risk for behavioral problems later in life.
- Maltreatment can lead to attachment issues, where individuals struggle to form trusting relationships.
- Understanding the impact of maltreatment helps clinicians devise better therapeutic interventions for affected individuals.
Literature
- Numerous literary works explore themes of maltreatment, often highlighting the plight of protagonists facing adversity.
- Classic novels like 'Jane Eyre' and 'Oliver Twist' depict characters who endure maltreatment but eventually overcome their struggles.
Law
- Maltreatment is often a central concern in child protection laws, with various regulations designed to prevent abuse.
- Legal systems may define maltreatment differently based on cultural contexts and societal norms.
Origin of 'maltreated'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Middle English term 'maltreten,' which means to treat badly.
- It is formed from the prefix 'mal-' meaning bad or wrong, combined with 'treat'.
The word 'maltreated' originated from the combination of 'mal-' meaning 'badly' and 'treat'. It has been used in the English language since the late 15th century, evolving to encompass the concept of mistreatment or cruelty towards others. The history of maltreatment is often associated with issues of abuse, neglect, and injustice, highlighting the importance of empathy and compassion in human interactions.
See also: maltreat.