autophagy

noun

1. (countable, uncountable)The process of self-digestion by a cell through the action of enzymes originating within the same cell, and often a defensive or self-preservation measure.

   “Near-synonym: autocytolysis”

2. (countable, uncountable)A type of programmed cell death accomplished through self-digestion.
3. (countable, rare, uncountable)Self-consumption; the act of eating oneself.