mistreat
UK: ˌmɪsˈtriːt | US: ˌmɪsˈtriːt
vt. to treat someone or something badly or unfairly
The word "mistreat" combines the prefix "mis-" (from Old English "mis-," meaning "wrongly" or "badly") with the verb "treat" (from Old French "traitier," meaning "to handle or deal with"). The prefix "mis-" often negates or reverses the meaning of the root, as seen in words like "misunderstand" or "mislead." Here, it transforms "treat" (neutral/positive) into "mistreat" (negative), emphasizing harmful or unfair behavior. The logic is straightforward: "wrong handling" = "bad treatment."
The documentary exposed how some factories mistreat their workers.
Parents should never mistreat their children, no matter the circumstances.
Animal rights activists protested against farms that mistreat livestock.
She felt deeply hurt when her friends mistreated her during the argument.
Laws exist to punish those who mistreat vulnerable individuals.