self-destruction

noun

self-de·​struc·​tion ˌself-di-ˈstrək-shən 

: destruction of oneself

especially : suicide

Synonyms

• 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

Newman’s ingrained impish defiance combined with his salt-and-pepper good looks lends Reggie the perfect avatar for the reckless, anarchic tenacity that defines George Roy Hill’s cult comedy, a movie about self-destruction in the name of existential survival. —Vikram Murthi, IndieWire, 19 Aug. 2025

The film’s synopsis reads: Kerr, an icon of the early UFC era, stands at the peak of his career while teetering on the edge of destruction – a life caught between fame and self-destruction. —Zac Ntim, Deadline, 14 Aug. 2025

Neither is ready for the supernatural forces that turn their mundane self-destruction into a terrifying death trap. —Matt Donnelly, Variety, 9 Aug. 2025

Michelle’s addicted to the need for her own self-destruction. —Ben Travers, IndieWire, 18 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1586, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-destruction

• aqueducts
• reconstructs
• conducts
• constructs
• deducts
• instructs
• obstructs
• ducts

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 

: destruction of oneself

especially : suicide