Definition

To engage in the act of eating the flesh of one's own species.

Example

In some cultures, people may cannibalize as part of a ritual.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about that strange tribe that still cannibalize today?

Yeah, I've read some articles about it; it's fascinating and a bit shocking.

I can't believe people actually practice that; it seems so foreign to us.

I know, right? It really makes you think about different cultures.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

To take parts or resources from one thing to use for another, often in a way that harms the original item.

Example

The company had to cannibalize some of its older products to support the new line.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how companies sometimes cannibalize their own products?

Yeah, I read that they do it to make way for newer models.

It seems strange, but I guess it's all about staying competitive.

Root Explanation

Cannibalize → It is formed from "cannibal" (from Spanish *caníbal*, meaning a person who eats human flesh) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to become). The word "cannibalize" means to take parts from one thing to use in another, often in a way that diminishes the original item, similar to how a cannibal consumes flesh.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'cannibal' who consumes parts of others, and when you 'cannibalize' something, you are taking parts from it to use elsewhere.

Visually Confused Words