self-destruction

noun

self-de·​struc·​tion ˌself-di-ˈstrək-shən How to pronounce self-destruction (audio)
: destruction of oneself
especially : suicide

Examples of self-destruction in a Sentence

the controversy over self-destruction accomplished with the assistance of a physician or other person
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Ghosts and vengeful spirits lurk and linger, tempting and prodding our characters toward self-destruction. Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 30 Oct. 2024 The Cleveland Browns are no strangers to self-destruction. Jim Ingraham, Forbes, 24 Oct. 2024 In addition to The Shining, Finn found inspiration in the stories of tragic pop stars like Whitney Houston, Amy Winehouse, and other members of the 27 Club while charting Skye's path of self-destruction. Joey Nolfi, EW.com, 20 Oct. 2024 Still, industry minds want to know: Will the company, like so many before it, suddenly get seduced into making bigger bets on the way to self-destruction? Dade Hayes, Deadline, 19 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for self-destruction 

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-destruction was circa 1586

Dictionary Entries Near self-destruction

Cite this Entry

“Self-destruction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-destruction. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

self-destruction

noun
self-de·​struc·​tion
ˌself-di-ˈstrək-shən
: destruction of oneself
especially : suicide sense 1
self-destructive
-ˈstrək-tiv
adjective

Medical Definition

self-destruction

noun
self-de·​struc·​tion -di-ˈstrək-shən How to pronounce self-destruction (audio)
: destruction of oneself
especially : suicide
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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