What does "self-preservation" mean?

The instinctive behaviour that protects oneself from harm.

How do you pronounce "self-preservation"?

Pronounced //ˌsɛlfˌpɹɛzɜˈɹ.veɪ.ʃən//.

Common synonyms include: avoidance reaction, defence, defense, defense in depth, defense mechanism, defenses.

/ˌsɛlfˌpɹɛzɜˈɹ.veɪ.ʃən/ noun

noun ·Rare ·Advanced level

Noun

1
The instinctive behaviour that protects oneself from harm. uncountable
"I'm here to tell you want to do. And if self-preservation is an instinct you possess, you better fuckin' do it and do it quick."
2
preservation of yourself from harm; a natural or instinctive tendency wordnet

"Does the term self-preservation mean anything to you?"

From self- + preservation.