asylum seeker

American  

[uh-sahy-luhm see-ker] / əˈsaɪ ləm ˌsi kər /

noun

1. a person, especially a political fugitive, who applies for refuge or asylum in a foreign country or its embassy.

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asylum seeker British  

noun

1. a person who, from fear of persecution for reasons of race, religion, social group, or political opinion, has crossed an international frontier into a country in which he or she hopes to be granted refugee status

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Etymology

Origin of asylum seeker

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

"Right now, unfortunately, we're in God's hands," said Richard Torres, a 39-year-old asylum seeker from Venezuela.

From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026

One, a 24-year-old Guatemalan asylum seeker named Yulisa Alvarado Ambrocio, was spared detention only because her breastfeeding 11-month-old was with her in court, records show.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 25, 2025

The Home Office pays Mears a fee for each asylum seeker it provides food, shelter and services to.

From BBC • Dec. 16, 2025

“They are not allowing any of my family members here,” said Anastazia Bununsi, an Eritrean waitress who came to Kampala as an asylum seeker.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 30, 2025

An asylum seeker must already be present in the US.

From "Americanized" by Sara Saedi