struggle for existence

noun phrase

: the automatic competition of members of a natural population for limited vital resources (such as food, space, or light) that results in natural selection

Word History

First Known Use

1832, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of struggle for existence was in 1832

Dictionary Entries Near struggle for existence

struggle

struggle for existence

struggle on

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Cite this Entry

“Struggle for existence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/struggle%20for%20existence. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

struggle for existence

: competition (as for food, space, or light) of members of a natural population that tends to eliminate weaker or less efficient individuals and thereby to increase the chance of the stronger or more efficient individuals to pass on their traits

More from Merriam-Webster on struggle for existence

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about struggle for existence

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