View synonyms for refuge

refuge

[ref-yooj]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

shelter or protection from danger, trouble, etc..
to take refuge from a storm.
Synonyms: safety, security
a place of shelter, protection, or safety.
Synonyms: stronghold, haven, sanctuary, retreat, asylum
anything to which one has recourse for aid, relief, or escape.

verb (used with object)

refuged, refuging

Archaic., to afford refuge to.

verb (used without object)

refuged, refuging

Archaic., to take refuge.

refuge

/ ˈrɛfjuːdʒ /

noun

shelter or protection, as from the weather or danger
any place, person, action, or thing that offers or appears to offer protection, help, or relief
accused of incompetence, he took refuge in lying
another name for traffic island

verb

archaic, to take refuge or give refuge to

Discover More

Word History and Origins

Origin of refuge¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin refugium, from refug(ere) “to turn and flee, run away” ( re- re- + fugere “to flee”; fugitive ) + -ium -ium

Discover More

Word History and Origins

Origin of refuge¹

C14: via Old French from Latin refugium , from refugere to flee away, from _re- + fugere to escape

Discover More

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

It’s in these conditions that Smith doubted Topanga’s refuge sites could protect residents.

Related Words

refuel refugee

Browse