Survive

/sərˈvaɪv/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To continue to live or exist, especially in spite of danger or hardship.
Many species of plants can survive in harsh environmental conditions.
To remain alive after the death of someone or something.
She is the only one who survived the accident.
To live longer than; outlive.
He survived his wife by several years.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'supervivere', which means 'to live beyond'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

survival of the fittest
The concept that only those who are strong enough will survive in a changing environment.
survive a crisis
To overcome or endure a significant hardship or emergency.
barely survive
To manage to live with minimal resources or under dire circumstances.

Related Words

survival
The act or fact of continuing to live or exist.
survivor
A person who survives, especially a person who has lived through a disaster.
resilience
The ability to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.

Slang Meanings

Hang in there
Even when things get tough, just hang in there and you'll survive.
Make it through
If you can make it through this week, you'll survive!