autotomy
noun
au·tot·o·my ȯ-ˈtä-tə-mē 
: reflex separation of a part (such as an appendage) from the body : division of the body into two or more pieces
autotomous
ȯ-ˈtä-tə-məs
adjective autotomize
ȯ-ˈtä-tə-ˌmīz
verb 
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web For scorpions, tail autotomy is even more punishing. 
Bradley Allf, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Mar. 2021 Leopard geckos are one of a few lizard species that possess this self-amputation ability, known as autotomy. Jason G. Goldman, Scientific American, 1 Dec. 2017
Bradley Allf, Smithsonian Magazine, 1 Mar. 2021 Leopard geckos are one of a few lizard species that possess this self-amputation ability, known as autotomy. Jason G. Goldman, Scientific American, 1 Dec. 2017 Word History
Etymology
International Scientific Vocabulary
First Known Use
1887, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
autotomy
noun
au·tot·o·my ȯ-ˈtät-ə-mē
plural autotomies
: reflex separation of a part from the body especially in an invertebrate