refuge

[ref-yooj]

noun

1. shelter or protection from danger, trouble, etc..

   to take refuge from a storm.

   Synonyms: safety, security

2. a place of shelter, protection, or safety.

   Synonyms: stronghold, haven, sanctuary, retreat, asylum

3. anything to which one has recourse for aid, relief, or escape.

verb (used with object)

refuged, refuging 

1. Archaic.,  to afford refuge to.

verb (used without object)

refuged, refuging 

1. Archaic.,  to take refuge.

refuge

/ ˈrɛfjuːdʒ /

noun

1. shelter or protection, as from the weather or danger

2. any place, person, action, or thing that offers or appears to offer protection, help, or relief

   accused of incompetence, he took refuge in lying

3. another name for traffic island

verb

1. archaic,  to take refuge or give refuge to

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of refuge¹

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

Example Sentences

"Which is what encouraged me to help her get out of there and get her off to a refuge to begin a fresh start, a fresh life away from her parents," Ms Jones added.

From BBC

All she had, she says, was a watch and a ring - which she sold in order to pay for a trip to Australia, where she sought refuge with a friend.

From BBC

The shells hit the school yard where they had taken refuge.

From BBC

Mr Mahon recalled attending the civil rights protest and, when trouble broke out, seeking refuge in Glenfada Park North with a group of about 40 others.

From BBC

At a time when trans and queer people are increasingly targeted by ring-wing politicians and activists through legislation and dehumanizing rhetoric — LGBTQ+-friendly shows such as “Bob’s Burgers” can, for some, feel like a refuge.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• asylum 
• fortress 
• haven 
• hideaway 
• hideout 
• hiding place www.thesaurus.com
• protection 
• resort 
• retreat 
• sanctuary 
• security 
• shelter 
• stronghold