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

Self preservation is a strong and persuasive incentive.

From New York Times • Oct. 16, 2016

Self preservation is the first law of human life, and is included in fear.

From Tales of lonely trails by Grey, Zane

Self preservation," said he, "that first and ruling principle of human nature, alarming our fears, has made us jealous and perhaps severe in our threats against delinquents.

From American Negro Slavery A Survey of the Supply, Employment and Control of Negro Labor as Determined by the Plantation Regime by Phillips, Ulrich Bonnell

"Self preservation is the first law of nature, my dear," replied Uncle John.

From Aunt Jane's Nieces in the Red Cross by Baum, L. Frank (Lyman Frank)

Self preservation is the strongest impulse underground as well as above .

From NATURAE by Dom