noun
preserving one's life; longevity
A somewhat formal or literary term for maintaining life or achieving a long lifespan. Not an everyday word; more common in written or elevated contexts.
保命のためには、規則正しい生活が欠かせない。
A regular lifestyle is essential for preserving one's life.
この漢方薬は保命に効果があるとされている。
This herbal medicine is said to be effective for longevity.
Compound of 保 (preserve, maintain) and 命 (life). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the meaning is transparent from the kanji.