AUTOPHAGY

Etymology

Noun

autophagy (uncountable)

(biology) The process of self-digestion by a cell through the action of enzymes originating within the same cell. Often a defensive and/or self-preservation measure.

(biology) A type of programmed cell death accomplished through self-digestion.

(rare) Self-consumption; the act of eating oneself.

Synonyms

• (self-consumption): autocannibalism

Coordinate terms

• (programmed cell death): apoptosis

Source: Wiktionary

Au*toph"a*gy, n. [Gr. self + to eat.] (Med.)

Definition: The feeding of the body upon itself, as in fasting; nutrition by consumption of one's own tissues.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition