DictionaryslangVerbal abuse
verb

slang

To attack someone with harsh or abusive words.

The angry caller slangs the host instead of answering questions.

Etymology

Slang developed a verb meaning to use coarse or abusive language against someone. The action sense draws on slang's older association with disreputable or nonstandard speech.

More examples

  • Fans slanged the referee after the final whistle.
  • They spend the whole meeting slanging each other.
  • You can disagree without slanging everyone who thinks differently.

Forms

slang · slangs · slanged · slanging

Similar words

berate
Berate emphasizes angry criticism, often directed at someone's conduct.
insult
Insult emphasizes offending someone's dignity, not necessarily a sustained attack.