self-destruct

[ self-di-struhkt ]

verb (used without object)

1. to destroy itself or oneself:

   The missile is built so that a malfunction will cause it to self-destruct.

2. to cause itself or oneself to reach a state of collapse, dysfunction, confusion, or the like:

   The committee is so disorganized it will probably self-destruct before it can accomplish anything.

adjective

1. causing something to self-destruct:

   a self-destruct mechanism.

self-destruct

verb

1. intr to explode or disintegrate automatically as a result of pre-programming

   the missile self-destructed

2. to destroy oneself, one's reputation, etc, through one's habits or actions

   I totally self-destructed with drugs

noun

1. ( as modifier )

   hit the self-destruct button

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-destruct¹

An Americanism dating back to 1965–70

Example Sentences

Because of its “self-destruct” reputation, the app is a popular tool among youngsters for transmitting sexually explicit material.

From The Daily Beast

At this point, why not sit back and wait for this crazy experiment to self-destruct?

From The Daily Beast

While we self-destruct, we continue our arrogant dance with greed.

From The Daily Beast

Once Gingrich was leading the polls, the pundits began betting whether he would self-destruct.

From The Daily Beast

Newt could self-destruct before that, but waiting for such a meltdown is not a strategy.

From The Daily Beast