تعریف و معنای "[save] {one's} [skin|neck|hide|bacon]"

What is the origin of the idiom "save one's skin" and when to use it?

The idiom "save one's skin" has origins in the idea of preserving one's physical well-being or avoiding harm. It is a figurative expression used to describe actions taken to ensure one's safety or protect oneself from danger, often at the expense of others or in challenging situations.