self-protection

[ self-pruh-tek-shuhn, self- ]

noun

1. protection of oneself or itself.

self-protection

noun

1. the act or an instance of protecting or defending oneself

Derived Forms

• ˌself-proˈtective, adjective

Other Word Forms

• self-pro·tecting adjective
• self-pro·tective adjective
• self-pro·tective·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-protection¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

“Murderers, thieves, drug dealers — theirs is the basic instinct of self-protection,” one lawyer said in her opening statement.

From Los Angeles Times

Here, the blurring is visual: Sometimes Leonard floats into the past looking like Gere, who wears the character without a shred of self-protection as the lens gawks at his raw skin.

From Los Angeles Times

That focus on self-protection is largely overlooked in the negative reactions to 4B in the U.S., but it shouldn't be.

From Salon

America PAC's website says it wants "secure borders", "safe cities", "free speech", "sensible spending", a "fair justice system" and "self-protection".

From BBC

Miller said that he had no plans to kill the former president and that he carried the firearms for self-protection.

From Los Angeles Times