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using
transitive verb1archaic : accustom
, habituate2: to put into action or service : avail oneself of : employ3: to consume or take (as liquor or drugs) regularly4: to carry out a purpose or action by means of : utilize
; also : manipulate 2b <used him selfishly>5: to expend or consume by putting to use —often used with up6: to behave toward : act with regard to : treat <used the prisoners cruelly>7: stand 1d <the house could use a coat of paint>intransitive verb1—used in the past with to to indicate a former fact or state <we used to go more often><didn't use to smoke>2: to take illicit drugs regularly
synonyms use
, employ
, utilize mean to put into service especially to attain an end. use implies availing oneself of something as a means or instrument to an end <willing to use any means to achieve her ends>. employ suggests the use of a person or thing that is available but idle, inactive, or disengaged <looking for better ways to employ their skills>. utilize may suggest the discovery of a new, profitable, or practical use for something <an old wooden bucket utilized as a planter>.
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