self-destructive

adjective

self-de·​struc·​tive ˌself-di-ˈstrək-tiv How to pronounce self-destructive (audio)
: acting or tending to harm or destroy oneself
self-destructive behavior
also : suicidal
a self-destructive impulse
self-destructiveness noun

Examples of self-destructive in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Williams seemed consumed with how to ensure this wasn’t all a self-destructive, highly dangerous waste of time. Joshua Kaplan, ProPublica, 4 Jan. 2025 In this excerpt, his addicted, self-destructive brother’s stepmother wants to buy him a new car, exposing a darker side of him. Max Ufberg, hazlitt.net, 4 Jan. 2025 Weirdest of all is the self-destructive way these trees grew. New Atlas, 2 Jan. 2025 His refusal to seek help jeopardizes his relationship with Sampson, who isn't afraid to confront his friend's self-destructive behavior. Giana Levy, refinery29.com, 15 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for self-destructive 

Word History

First Known Use

1641, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-destructive was in 1641

Dictionary Entries Near self-destructive

Cite this Entry

“Self-destructive.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-destructive. Accessed 10 Jan. 2025.

Medical Definition

self-destructive

adjective
self-de·​struc·​tive -ˈstrək-tiv How to pronounce self-destructive (audio)
: acting or tending to harm or destroy oneself
self-destructive behavior
also : suicidal
self-destructively adverb
self-destructiveness noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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