autotomize

[ aw-tot-uh-mahyz ]

verb (used without object)

, au·tot·o·mized, au·tot·o·miz·ing.

1. to undergo autotomy.

verb (used with object)

, au·tot·o·mized, au·tot·o·miz·ing.

1. to effect autotomy of (a part).

autotomize

/ ɔːˈtɒtəˌmaɪz /

verb

1. to cause (a part of the body) to undergo autotomy

Word History and Origins

Origin of autotomize¹

First recorded in 1900–05; autotom(y) + -ize

Example Sentences

“Some animals can autotomize their legs or appendages or tails, but no other animal shed their whole body.”

From Seattle Times