What does cannibalised mean?
Cannibalised is a verb that refers to the practice of reusing or recycling material from a discarded or obsolete product. This can include computer or electronic devices, as well as other types of products. The term is often used in the context of business and technology, particularly in relation to product development and marketing strategies. Companies may choose to cannibalise their own sales by releasing a cheaper version of the same product, in order to stay competitive in the market. This can be a complex issue, as it requires careful consideration of the potential impact on sales and revenue. However, it can also be a useful strategy for reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Overall, cannibalised is an important term in the business world, and is likely to continue to be relevant in the future.
verbto reuse or recycle material from a discarded or obsolete product, especially a computer or electronic device.
- to reuse or recycle material from a discarded or obsolete product
"The company has started to cannibalise its own sales by releasing a cheaper version of the same product."
"The company has started to cannibalise its own sales by releasing a cheaper version of the same product."
"The new policy aims to reduce waste by encouraging employees to cannibalise old equipment for spare parts."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of cannibalised
The word cannibalised is derived from the verb cannibalise, which was first used in the 1960s. This verb is itself derived from the noun cannibal, which refers to a person who eats human flesh. The term cannibalised is thought to have originated in the context of business and technology, where it was used to describe the practice of reusing or recycling material from discarded products. Over time, the term has become more widely used, and is now a common part of business and technological discourse.
How cannibalised is actually used
This verb is often used in the context of business and technology, particularly in relation to product development and marketing strategies.