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

What makes Melissa unusual is that it stalled and intensified in the same spot -- a sign that the water was so warm, and the warmth ran so deep, it avoided the usual self-destructing effect.

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The local authority pointed out the messages were set to "automatic self-destruct mode" – and said they represented evidence of a deal to purchase a baby.

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However, not everyone was blown away, with the Hollywood Reporter saying it's "a disappointing farewell", and Mashable saying the series risked going out with the "fizzled whimper of a message self-destructing in a tape deck".

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Mellman also shares his thoughts about the Democratic Party’s weak brand and messaging, how it can be improved, and if the Democrats should follow James Carville’s advice to be passive and let Trump self-destruct.

Read more on Salon

The community group Crane Boulevard Safety Coalition had challenged the city’s use of disappearing messages, contending that it amounted to a secret, self-destructing communications channel for city business.

Read more on Los Angeles Times