Self-defense is a term that refers to protecting oneself against harm or danger. There are several synonyms for self-defense, such as self-preservation, survival, protection, safeguarding, and shielding. Self-preservation is the act of protecting oneself from harm or danger, and survival is the act of staying alive and continuing to exist. Protection refers to the act of guarding oneself against harm or danger, and safeguarding is the act of protecting oneself and others from harm or danger. Finally, shielding is the act of protecting oneself by preventing harm or danger from reaching or affecting you. These synonyms all emphasize the importance of protecting oneself from harm or danger in various ways.