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sanctuary

SANGK-choo-er-ee /ˈsæŋk.tʃu.er.i/

nounB2GRESATTOEFL

generalformal

A sacred place, such as a temple or church; or a place of safety, refuge, and protection.

Can refer to a physical holy building, a protected natural area for wildlife, or a psychological state of safety and peace.

The story behind the word. Sanctuary comes from the Latin sanctuarium, which was a place for keeping holy things. This is derived from sanctus, meaning holy. In the Middle Ages, churches offered 'right of sanctuary,' a legal privilege where fugitives could not be arrested inside a church.

Word relationships

refuge: A place of safety from danger, but without the sacred or holy connotations of a sanctuary.
haven: A harbor or safe place, often used for ships or financial assets, lacking spiritual associations.

exposure: A state of being vulnerable to danger or elements without protection.
hazard: A source of danger or risk, the opposite of a safe space.

Commonly confused with

asylum: Asylum is formal protection granted by a nation to political refugees, while sanctuary is a general place of safety or holiness.

Word family

sanctum (noun): A private place where one is free from intrusion.
sanctify (verb): To make holy or sacred.

Collocations

seek sanctuary
wildlife sanctuary
inner sanctuary
safe sanctuary

Example sentences

"The remote island serves as a sanctuary for endangered bird species, free from human interference." Describing a peaceful wildlife reserve.
"The fugitives sought sanctuary within the thick stone walls of the medieval cathedral." Describing a place of worship as a refuge.

Memory hook

Think of a sanctuary as a place where you can find safety and sank (sanct-) into a comfortable chair without any worry. A safe, holy place.

When not to use

Do not use for a temporary shelter that lacks a sense of sacredness, deep peace, or permanent protection.

Fun facts

The concept of sanctuary is so ancient that even in ancient Greece, temples of certain gods offered absolute protection to runaway slaves and criminals.