eat one's young en · VERB
Pronunciation
- (Australia) audio
Etymology
The term is derived from the zoological phenomenon of animals killing and consuming their own young for sustenance.
Meanings
-
To betray a constituent or charge out of self-serving interests or desperation.
With bankruptcy looming, the corporation eventually began eating its young; massive layoffs were announced, and all employee benefits and bonuses were suspended.
Forms
| Spelling | Features | Labels | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| eaten one's young | Tense=Past, VerbForm=Part | lexicographic | |
| eats one's young | Number=Sing, Person=3, Tense=Pres | lexicographic | |
| ate one's young | Tense=Past | lexicographic | |
| eating one's young | Tense=Pres, VerbForm=Part | lexicographic |