eat one's young

The term is derived from the zoological phenomenon of animals killing and consuming their own young for sustenance.

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eat one's young (third-person singular simple present eats one's young, present participle eating one's young, simple past ate one's young, past participle eaten one's young)

1. 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.

This term sees significant usage in nursing and unofficial government and business contexts.