self-destruct
verb (used without object)
to destroy itself or oneself.
self-destructing
-
present participleof self-destruct.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
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.
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.
From Barron's ● Oct. 27, 2025
What about Shohei Ohtani nearly self-destructing in the second inning of his first-ever postseason start as a pitcher?
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 4, 2025
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".
From BBC ● May 25, 2025
The Lions have a reputation of self-destructing with penalties, turnovers and mental mistakes.
From Seattle Times ● Nov. 25, 2022
The self-destructing tape never told the mission-impossible team how to complete their impossible mission, but the team always seemed to know.
From "The Great Gilly Hopkins" by Katherine Paterson
