self-preservation
noun
self-pres·er·va·tion
ˌself-ˌpre-zər-ˈvā-shən 
1
: preservation of oneself from destruction or harm
2
: a natural or instinctive tendency to act so as to preserve one's own existence
Examples of self-preservation in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
As Tony slips into sociopathic self-preservation in the series' waning days, his love for his children provides his last link to humanity.
—
Dan Snierson, Entertainment Weekly, 27 Dec. 2025
In a time where our appearances are being constantly modified (digitally and surgically), frozen, smoothed over and shrunk down, being part of the full bush agenda feels like an act of self-preservation.
—Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 23 Dec. 2025
Every detail was handled, allowing guests to simply arrive, unwind and engage in discussion centered on the show’s themes of female resilience, empowerment and self-preservation.
—Clayton Davis, Variety, 15 Dec. 2025
Loyal to the Emperor, scornful of the aristocracy, and sympathetic to the peasants’ desire for liberation, if not their bloodlust, he is torn between medieval chivalry and modern self-preservation.
—Merve Emre, New Yorker, 1 Dec. 2025
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Dan Snierson, Entertainment Weekly, 27 Dec. 2025
In a time where our appearances are being constantly modified (digitally and surgically), frozen, smoothed over and shrunk down, being part of the full bush agenda feels like an act of self-preservation.
—Leah Dolan, CNN Money, 23 Dec. 2025
Every detail was handled, allowing guests to simply arrive, unwind and engage in discussion centered on the show’s themes of female resilience, empowerment and self-preservation.
—Clayton Davis, Variety, 15 Dec. 2025
Loyal to the Emperor, scornful of the aristocracy, and sympathetic to the peasants’ desire for liberation, if not their bloodlust, he is torn between medieval chivalry and modern self-preservation.
—Merve Emre, New Yorker, 1 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for self-preservation
Cite this Entry
“Self-preservation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-preservation. Accessed 31 Dec. 2025.
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