self-preservation
noun
self-pres·er·va·tion
ˌself-ˌpre-zər-ˈvā-shən 
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
Public relations considerations become less important, while self-preservation takes center stage.
—
Eric Koreen, New York Times, 27 May 2026
Then, there's self-preservation.
—Trey Wallace Outkick, FOXNews.com, 26 May 2026
Another self-preservation strategy is for nonprofits to change their websites.
—Christopher Justin Einolf, The Conversation, 22 May 2026
Koepp says this is a form of self-preservation.
—Darryn King, Vanity Fair, 19 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for self-preservation
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.
Eric Koreen, New York Times, 27 May 2026
Then, there's self-preservation.
—Trey Wallace Outkick, FOXNews.com, 26 May 2026
Another self-preservation strategy is for nonprofits to change their websites.
—Christopher Justin Einolf, The Conversation, 22 May 2026
Koepp says this is a form of self-preservation.
—Darryn King, Vanity Fair, 19 May 2026
See All Example Sentences for self-preservation
Cite this Entry
“Self-preservation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-preservation. Accessed 9 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
