cannibalize

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can·ni·bal·ize / ˈkanəbəˌlīz/ • v. [tr.] 1. use (a machine) as a source of spare parts for another, similar machine. ∎  use (the creative work of others) in one's own art: high culture should cannibalize mass culture. ∎  (of a company) reduce (the sales of one of its products) by introducing a similar, competing product.2. (of an animal) eat (an animal of its own kind).DERIVATIVES: can·ni·bal·i·za·tion / ˌkanəbələˈzāshən/ n.

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