asylum
uh-SY-lum
/əˈsaɪləm/
The protection granted by a nation to someone who has left their native country as a political refugee.
Carries a strong connotation of safety and sanctuary from persecution.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'asylos', meaning 'inviolable' or 'safe from seizure'. In ancient times, temples were often places of asylum where people were safe from arrest.
Word relationships
- sanctuary: A more general or religious term for a place of safety, whereas asylum is specifically political and legal.
- refuge: A general place of safety.
Commonly confused with
- refugee: A refugee is the person; asylum is the protection they seek.
Collocations
- seek asylum
- grant asylum
- political asylum
- asylum seeker
Example sentences
- "The right of asylum shall be respected." A legal declaration.
- "The family sought asylum in the embassy after fleeing the conflict in their home province." A news report.
Memory hook
Asylum provides a 'safe-lum' (safe room) for those in danger. A safe place.
When not to use
Historically used for psychiatric hospitals ('insane asylum'), but this usage is now considered dated and offensive.
Fun facts
- The concept of asylum dates back to ancient religious traditions where certain places were considered too holy for violence.
Related words
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