1. the practice of eating the flesh of one’s own species
2. the practice of using parts from one machine or device to repair another of the same type
Usage: informal

Examples

• Cannibalism was practiced by some ancient cultures during religious ceremonies.
• The documentary explored instances of cannibalism among certain animal species.
• Survival cannibalism has occurred in extreme situations throughout history.
• The mechanic resorted to cannibalism, taking parts from old cars to fix newer ones.
• The IT department practiced cannibalism with broken computers to keep others running.
• Some spider species exhibit cannibalism, with females eating males after mating.