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Autothysis

It is common for us to tweak words to put a bit of a different twist on it. We might wiggle the word a bit to fit into a different scenario. Today I saw this word and thought that perhaps I was doing that to myself.

Apparently scientists discovered a new species of ants. This Colobopsis explodens, has long glands filled with a toxic yellow substance. When it gets in a fight with another ant he explodes killing himself and the other ant. Since ants live in colonies and these ants are protectors, they will die to kill the enemy.  Their complete reason for existence is to provide for the colony.

Sometimes we try so hard to please and protect others that we lose ourselves. I would consider this a form of autothysis.

Photo credit: Live Science

  • Question of

    Is this a new word to you?

    • Yes
    • No
  • Question of

    Does my different usage make sense to you?

    • Yes
    • No
  • Question of

    Do you like to learn new words?

    • Yes
    • No

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What do you think?

Written by Ghostwriter

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