noun
sanctuary
SANK-choo-air-ee/ˈsæŋktʃueri/
A safe refuge from danger or harm.
The shelter offers sanctuary to the rescued dog.
Etymology
A sanctuary was originally a consecrated place. Because certain churches sheltered fugitives from arrest, the word broadened from a holy place offering protection to any place of refuge.
In context
He instructed the people to build him a tabernacle, a sanctuary, a place of refuge and safety, to help them understand his holiness
More examples
- They sought sanctuary from the violence.
- Her garden became a quiet sanctuary.
- The rescued animals were taken to a sanctuary.
Forms
sanctuary · sanctuaries
Similar words
- refuge
- A place or condition of safety.
- haven
- A welcoming safe place, often with a sense of peace.