An incorrect, improper or unlawful use of something.
"The company was fined heavily after they discovered that employees had misused confidential client data to gain an unfair advantage in the stock market."
In plain English: Misuse is using something incorrectly or for the wrong purpose.
"The company warned that misuse of their software could void your warranty."
Usage: As a noun, misuse refers to the act of using an object, system, or authority in an incorrect or unauthorized way rather than its intended purpose. This term is often applied when someone fails to follow established rules for handling tools, drugs, or legal powers.
To use (something) incorrectly.
"The technician warned that using the high-voltage tool on delicate circuitry would be a serious misuse of equipment."
In plain English: To misuse something means to use it incorrectly, carelessly, or for a purpose other than what it was intended for.
"Many people misuse fire extinguishers by spraying them when there is no actual fire."
The word misuse comes from combining the prefix mis- with the noun use. It entered English to describe the act of using something incorrectly or improperly.