self-destruction

noun

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

: destruction of oneself

especially : suicide

Synonyms of self-destruction

• 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

An important note is that failure does not necessarily equate to jail time or death or complete self-destruction. —Literary Hub, 23 Jan. 2026

According to Day, the film captures both the absurdity and the emotional toll of the band’s long-running self-destruction. —Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 17 Jan. 2026

The Exes is an intriguing psychological thriller about love’s promises and perils, how trauma can leave invisible scars, and the veil between self-protection and self-destruction. —Lynnette Nicholas, Essence, 30 Dec. 2025

Prosecutors said Brandes was suffering from a severe psychiatric disorder and had a strong compulsion for self-destruction. —Christina Coulter, PEOPLE, 20 Dec. 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