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Definition of survivalist

survivalist

/sɚˈvaɪ.və.lɪst/
sur · viv · al · ist
Plural:survivalists
•
Adjective:survivalist
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survivalist Lexical Profile

survivalist Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A person who actively prepares for future emergencies, natural disasters, or societal collapse by stockpiling supplies and learning skills for self-reliance.

Example

"As a dedicated survivalist, he maintained a year-round supply of non-perishable food and solar-powered generators at his rural cabin."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for survivalist

• adjective

1

Relating to, characteristic of, or designed for survivalism or survivalists, especially regarding emergency preparedness and self-sufficiency.

Example

"The local community center hosted a workshop on basic survivalist skills such as water purification and food preservation."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for survivalist

• Rhymes for survivalist

• Nearby Words

survivable
survival
survivalism
survivalist
survive
survivor
survivorship

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-20th century from 'survival' plus the agent suffix '-ist', the word gained widespread currency in the 1970s amid Cold War anxieties and economic uncertainty.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Survivalist. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/survivalist
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