What is another word for autotomy?

Pronunciation: [ˌɔːtə͡ʊtˈə͡ʊmi] (IPA)

Autotomy, the process of shedding or discarding a body part as a defensive mechanism, is a fascinating phenomenon seen in various species in the animal kingdom. Synonyms for this word include self-amputation, self-mutilation, self-severance, and self-ablation. Each of these synonyms highlights the act of an organism deliberately sacrificing or voluntarily cutting off a body part, such as a lizard's tail or a spider's leg, to escape from a predator or a threatening situation. While autotomy may seem like a drastic and extreme measure, it is a vital strategy for survival and regrowth in many animals, allowing them to protect themselves and even regrow lost appendages.

Synonyms for Autotomy:

What are the hypernyms for Autotomy?

A hypernym is a word with a broad meaning that encompasses more specific words called hyponyms.

What are the hyponyms for Autotomy?

Hyponyms are more specific words categorized under a broader term, known as a hypernym.

Usage examples for Autotomy

Passive modes of defence are as many and varied as are the active; one of the strangest and most inexplicable of these is that known as spontaneous amputation, technically termed autotomy.
"The Human Side of Animals"
Royal Dixon
autotomy not only permits flight, but also defends the animal against the most adverse conditions.
"The Human Side of Animals"
Royal Dixon

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