self-destruct
verb (used without object)
to destroy itself or oneself.
self-destructed
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past participleof self-destruct.past participle
A verb form used in perfect and passive verb constructions and that can also function as a modifier.
-
past tense formof self-destruct.past tense
Used to describe completed actions or previous habitual actions.
self-destructverb (used without object)to destroy itself or oneself.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
His administration accelerated a computer attack called Stuxnet designed to destroy Iran’s nuclear program by forcing centrifuges to spin until they self-destructed.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 28, 2026
Then the Knights self-destructed in the face of Sierra Canyon’s pressure defense.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 27, 2024
The company nevertheless considers the flight a success, having exceeded milestones set by the gargantuan rocket’s first test flight in April, which ended when it self-destructed at an altitude of 39 kilometers.
From Science Magazine ● Nov. 18, 2023
Gloucester had entirely self-destructed when referee Matthew Carley showed Jack Clement a yellow card for pulling down the maul and a penalty try was awarded.
From BBC ● Nov. 10, 2023
And now, in 1990, the system he helped create had self-destructed.
From "Spies: The Secret Showdown Between America and Russia" by Marc Favreau
