self-pres·er·va·tion
| \ ˌself-ˌpre-zər-ˈvā-shən
\
\
Definition of self-preservation
1
: preservation of oneself from destruction or harm
2
: a natural or instinctive tendency to act so as to preserve one's own existence
Keep scrolling for more
Learn More about self-preservation
Dictionary Entries near self-preservation
See More Nearby EntriesStatistics for self-preservation
Look-up Popularity
Cite this Entry
“Self-preservation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-preservation. Accessed 8 Mar. 2021.
Style: MLA
MLA
Chicago
APA
Merriam-Webster
Chicago
APA
Merriam-Webster
Keep scrolling for more
More Definitions for self-preservation
self-preservation
noun
English Language Learners Definition of self-preservation
: protection of yourself from harm or death
See the full definition for self-preservation in the English Language Learners Dictionary
Comments on self-preservation
What made you want to look up self-preservation? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Test Your Vocabulary
Who Knew?
-
- What is a ruelle?
Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Share self-preservation
Time Traveler for self-preservation
The first known use of self-preservation was circa 1614
See more words from the same year