a natural process resulting in the evolution of organisms best adapted to the environment
"The fossil record reveals how survival acted as a filter, allowing only the most drought-resistant species to thrive during the ancient megadrought."
something that survives
"The ancient oak tree is a true survival of the forest fire, standing tall while everything else burned away."
The fact or act of surviving; continued existence or life.
"The survival of the rare bird species depends entirely on protecting its remaining forest habitat."
In plain English: Survival is the act of staying alive when things are difficult or dangerous.
"The story focuses on their struggle for survival in the harsh winter."
Usage: Use survival to describe the state of continuing to live, often in difficult circumstances where death was possible. Distinguish it from survive as an action verb when referring specifically to enduring a threat rather than just existing afterward.
The word survival is formed by adding the suffix -al to the verb survive. This construction creates a noun meaning the state of continuing to live or exist after a dangerous event.