self-preservation

noun

self-pres·​er·​va·​tion ˌself-ˌpre-zər-ˈvā-shən How to pronounce self-preservation (audio)
1
: preservation of oneself from destruction or harm
2
: a natural or instinctive tendency to act so as to preserve one's own existence

Examples of self-preservation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While Swift’s social media silence and retreat from her famous friend group has only fueled the rumor mill, those in the know suggest this is all about self-preservation, not just relationship drama. Jenzia Burgos, StyleCaster, 21 Mar. 2025 Giulia, torn between self-preservation and guilt, slips Tanner a key to a locked office. Martine Paris, Forbes, 20 Mar. 2025 Yet the band had predetermined the time frame on the basis of ideas of self-preservation. Amanda Petrusich, The New Yorker, 17 Mar. 2025 For millennia, humans have evolved in specialized ways to ensure their self-preservation. Mark Travers, Forbes, 16 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for self-preservation

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1614, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-preservation was circa 1614

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Cite this Entry

“Self-preservation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-preservation. Accessed 5 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

self-preservation

noun
self-pres·​er·​va·​tion
ˌself-ˌprez-ər-ˈvā-shən
: the keeping of oneself from destruction or harm
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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