noun

sanctuary

SANGKT-yoor-ree

noun

A place of safety or refuge from danger or persecution.

"The refugees found sanctuary in a neighbouring country."

An area set aside to protect wildlife or nature.

"The wounded eagle was taken to a bird sanctuary to recover."

The sacred, central part of a church or temple around the altar.

"Only the priest was allowed near the sanctuary during the ritual."

How to Use Sanctuary

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA safe, protected place — whether it shelters people, animals, or is simply a sacred part of a place of worship.

Common pairings

wildlife sanctuary seek sanctuary bird sanctuary

sanctuaries plural

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Can you complete this real example?

The refugees found _____ in a neighbouring country.

From Old French saintuaire, from Latin sanctus ("holy") — originally referring to any sacred, protected space.

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