# maltreatment

/mæɫˈtɹitmənt/ (US) · /mˌæltɹˈiːtmənt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/maltreatment
Updated: 2026-10-19

## Definition

bad or cruel treatment of a person or animal, especially by someone who should care for them.

For teachers: cruel or negligent treatment of a person or animal, especially by a caregiver or authority figure. Covers physical abuse, neglect, and emotional harm.

## Examples

- The law protects children from abuse and maltreatment.
- The nurse reported signs of maltreatment after noticing bruises on the elderly patient.
- The inquiry documented decades of systemic maltreatment in state-run homes, where neglect and harsh discipline were normalized under the guise of order.

## Synonyms

abuse, mistreatment, cruelty

## Antonyms

care, kindness

## Usage notes

- Commonly followed by 'of' to name the victim ('maltreatment of children').

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.