survival

noun

sur·​viv·​al sər-ˈvī-vəl How to pronounce survival (audio)
often attributive
1
a
: the act or fact of living or continuing longer than another person or thing
b
: the continuation of life or existence
problems of survival in arctic conditions
2
: one that survives

Examples of survival in a Sentence

The refugees depend on foreign aid for their survival. Small businesses are fighting for survival. the survival of an old folktale
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.
Sea cucumbers use their regenerative powers for survival, too. Katarina Zimmer, Smithsonian Magazine, 9 May 2025 The two conferences were locked in a silent war for survival. Mike Bianchi, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 May 2025 Their operation thrives until they’re caught in a violent power struggle between the Mafia and an Irish gang, forcing them into a violent fight for survival. Alex Ritman, Variety, 8 May 2025 La Isla: Desafío Extremo: Second season of the survival reality show featuring celebrities and fans facing extreme challenges. Veronica Villafañe, Forbes.com, 8 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for survival

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of survival was in 1598

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Survival.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/survival. Accessed 22 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

survival

noun
sur·​viv·​al sər-ˈvī-vəl How to pronounce survival (audio)
1
: the act or fact of living or continuing longer than another person or thing
survival of half the population after the epidemic
2
: a continuation of life despite difficult conditions
skills for survival in the desert
3
: one that survives
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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