Definition

1. Noun:
   • The practice of eating the flesh of one's own species: "Cannibalism" refers to the act of consuming the flesh or internal organs of a member of the same species. It is observed in some animal species and has been documented in some human societies.

Usage

• "Cannibalism" is used as a non-count noun to describe the general practice or phenomenon.
• It is most commonly discussed in biological, anthropological, and historical contexts.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Cannibalism is a taboo in almost all modern human cultures.
  • Scientists observed cannibalism among the insects when food was scarce.
  • The historical accounts of shipwreck survivors sometimes mention acts of cannibalism.

Advanced Usage

• "Survival cannibalism": The act of eating a member of one's own species out of extreme necessity to avoid starvation.
  • The stranded explorers resorted to survival cannibalism.
• "Ritual cannibalism": The practice of consuming human flesh as part of a religious or cultural ritual.
  • Some ancient tribes practiced ritual cannibalism to absorb the strength of their enemies.

Variants and Related Words

• Cannibal (n): An individual who practices cannibalism.
  • The explorers feared they would encounter cannibals.
• Cannibalistic (adj): Relating to or characterized by cannibalism.
  • The spider exhibits cannibalistic behavior.

Synonyms

• Anthropophagy: (Formal, technical) The eating of human flesh by human beings.

Related Phrases

• To practice cannibalism: To engage in the act of cannibalism.
  • The tribe was rumored to practice cannibalism.

Noun

1. the practice of eating the flesh of your own kind