Meaning of the word maltreat in English

What does maltreat mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

maltreat

US /ˌmælˈtriːt/
UK /ˌmælˈtriːt/

Verb

to treat someone cruelly or violently:

Example:
He had been badly maltreated as a child.