self-preservationnoun [ U ]
uk/ˌselfˌprez.əˈveɪ.ʃən/us/ˌselfˌprez.ɚˈveɪ.ʃən/behaviour based on the characteristics or feelings that warn people or animals to protect themselves from difficulties or dangers:
It was his instinct for self-preservation that led him to abandon his former friends and transfer his allegiance to the new rulers.
Thesaurus: synonyms and related words
Protection and protectors
- aegis
- auspices
- bailiff
- bandobast
- beefeater
- buffer
- conservation
- guard
- guardian
- homeland security
- janitor
- minder
- night watchman
- preservation
- ranger
- sentinel
- shield
- warden
- watchman
- watchtower
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