survivalism

American  

[ser-vahy-vuhl-iz-uhm] / sərˈvaɪ vəlˌɪz əm /

noun

1. the learning and practicing of skills for surviving in the outdoors or wilderness.

2. the policy of ensuring or focusing on the survival of one's own group, nation, etc., above that of others.

3. the practice of storing food, weapons, and other supplies in preparation for surviving a potential catastrophe, such as nuclear war or societal collapse.

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Example Sentences

Some in Taiwan have pivoted toward survivalism, packing go-bags, stockpiling daily essentials and learning ham radio to prepare for internet blackouts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 19, 2026

The bushcraft and survivalism business is currently booming.

From Slate • Oct. 27, 2024

There’s a nail-biting urgency to the juxtaposition of Aretha’s fledgling survivalism and her increasingly clumsy performance at work, contributing to the sense that “The Survivalists” would make for a thrilling screen adaptation.

From Washington Post • Jan. 12, 2023

Jim had a better sense of what would sell in the cultural moment, seizing upon the prosperity gospel during the go-go 1980s and then tapping into end-times survivalism in the wake of 9/11.

From Salon • Sep. 27, 2021

While it’s not strict solo survivalism, it’s close, and the stunning cinematography is unmatched in unscripted television.

From New York Times • Jun. 9, 2020