cannibal
UK: ˈkænɪb(ə)l | US: ˈkænəb(ə)l
n. 1. A person who eats the flesh of their own species.
n. 2. An animal that feeds on others of its own kind.
n. 3. (Figuratively) A ruthless or destructive entity.
cannibal = cannib<Carib> + al<noun suffix>
- cannib<Carib>: Derived from Carib, the name of an indigenous people of the Caribbean, whom Europeans falsely accused of practicing cannibalism. The Spanish caníbal (from Caríbal) reinforced this association.
- al<noun suffix>: A suffix forming nouns, often indicating a person or thing associated with a trait (e.g., arrival, criminal).
Etymology Origin:
The word cannibal originates from a colonial-era misunderstanding. Spanish explorers, encountering the Carib people (Caríbal in Spanish), conflated their name with practices of ritualistic warfare and alleged anthropophagy. Over time, caníbal evolved into cannibal in English, solidifying its gruesome connotation. The term reflects historical biases and the power of language to perpetuate myths.
The explorers feared the tribe might be cannibals.
Some species of sharks exhibit cannibal behavior.
The corporation was accused of being a cannibal, destroying smaller competitors.
Legends often depict cannibals as monstrous figures.
Cannibalism is taboo in nearly all human societies.