self-destruct

verb

self-de·​struct ˌself-di-ˈstrəkt 

self-destructed; self-destructing; self-destructs

intransitive verb

: to destroy oneself or itself

self-destruct adjective

Examples of self-destruct in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

As promised, the client has now programmed Vision to turn himself in or self-destruct. — Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 4 Nov. 2026

The Giants already have moved to -150 favorites to win the division on DraftKings ahead of the self-destructing Dallas Cowboys (+235), the messy Commanders (+560) and the reeling Eagles (+3300). — Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 2 Nov. 2026

Even with all these reports, most iPhone Duos are probably not going to self-destruct. — Ryan Whitwam, ArsTechnica, 27 Oct. 2026

The Targaryens have an unfair advantage in the realm, but with great dragons come great responsibility—and great opportunity to self-destruct. — Sarah Larson, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-destruct

• aqueduct
• deconstruct
• reconstruct
• abduct
• conduct
• construct
• deduct
• destruct
• induct
• instruct
• obstruct
• bucked