self–preservation

noun self–pres·er·va·tion \-ˌpre-zər-ˈvā-shən\

: protection of yourself from harm or death

Full Definition of SELF-PRESERVATION

: preservation of oneself from destruction or harm

: a natural or instinctive tendency to act so as to preserve one's own existence

See self–preservation defined for English-language learners

See self-preservation defined for kids

circa 1614

Next Word in the Dictionary: self–preservativePrevious Word in the Dictionary: self–poweredAll Words Near: 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).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears