self-destruct

verb

self-de·​struct ˌself-di-ˈstrəkt How to pronounce self-destruct (audio)
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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Allow The Use Of Temporary Identification Methods Offer a feature where users can leverage temporary, self-destructing identity data—like a disposable email address or a temporary login credential—for specific, short-term uses. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 21 Oct. 2024 Iranian officials said the weapon had used artificial intelligence and facial recognition to detect Fakhrizadeh and open fire, before the car, reportedly packed with explosives, self-destructed. Christian Edwards, CNN, 19 Sep. 2024 The highly valuable work had just hammered down for $1.13 million before it self-destructed. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 13 Sep. 2024 Per a recent court filing, Venu Sports, the coming sports-centric streaming service from Fox, Disney, and Warner Bros. Discovery, is set to self-destruct in nine years. Tony Maglio, IndieWire, 6 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for self-destruct 

Word History

First Known Use

1968, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-destruct was in 1968

Dictionary Entries Near self-destruct

Cite this Entry

“Self-destruct.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-destruct. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.

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