cannibalism
UK: ˈkanɪbəlɪz(ə)m | US: ˈkænəbəˌlɪzəm
n. the practice of eating the flesh of one's own species
n. (figuratively) ruthless exploitation or aggression toward others of the same group
The word "cannibalism" traces back to the Spanish caníbal, derived from Caríbal (Carib), an indigenous people of the Caribbean. Early European explorers mistakenly believed the Caribs practiced ritualistic consumption of human flesh. The suffix -ism (from Greek -ismos) denotes a practice or ideology, solidifying the term’s meaning as "the practice of eating one’s own kind." The myth-laden history of the Caribs shaped the word’s dark connotation, later extending metaphorically to describe self-destructive behaviors in groups.
Historical records suggest accusations of cannibalism were often used to justify colonial violence.
In extreme survival situations, cannibalism has been documented as a last resort.
The novel explores psychological cannibalism, where characters metaphorically consume each other’s identities.
Some animal species exhibit cannibalism under stress or overcrowding.
The term "corporate cannibalism" describes companies aggressively eliminating competitors.