self-preservation

American  

[self-prez-er-vey-shuhn, self-] / ˈsɛlfˌprɛz ərˈveɪ ʃən, ˌsɛlf- /

noun

1. preservation of oneself from harm or destruction.

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self-preservation British  

noun

1. the preservation of oneself from danger or injury, esp as a basic instinct

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Other Word Forms

• self-preserving adjective

Etymology

Origin of self-preservation

First recorded in 1605–15

Example Sentences

Europe should admit that self-preservation is now a central motive of its support.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 5, 2026

“It was sort of like a self-preservation thing,” he adds.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

“I could think of any adjective to fill the blank. And it would probably work. You find different ways to protect yourself, whether that’s self-preservation or it’s just growing up.”

From MarketWatch • Dec. 4, 2025

It’s hardly a stretch to think that pitch-black darkness at a freakishly early hour could similarly deter would-be voters, out of either sloth or self-preservation.

From Slate • Oct. 31, 2025

I think it was self-preservation on her part rather than any good nature toward me.

From "Code Name Verity" by Elizabeth Wein