safe space

American  

[seyf speys] / ˈseɪf ˈspeɪs /

noun

1. a place that provides a physically and emotionally safe environment for a person or group of people, especially a place where people can freely express themselves without fear of prejudice, negative judgment, etc..

   a safe space for single moms to share their experiences.

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Usage

What does safe space mean? A safe space is a physical or metaphorical place for people, usually of marginalized identities, to feel free of judgment or harm

Etymology

Origin of safe space

First recorded in 2005–10

Example Sentences

One of the important things she has trained Captain Crumpet and Chikondi in is what to do if they feel threatened and she carries a rucksack as a mobile safe space.

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

And 12-step support groups, including Debtors Anonymous, provide a safe space to talk about your willingness to splurge.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 18, 2026

“Saturday Night Live” will always be a safe space for politicians who don’t mind laughing at themselves.

From Salon • Mar. 6, 2026

"But for the meantime as we wait for the schedule, we will train and play the last match in a safe space," she added.

From BBC • Mar. 5, 2026

We’re also going to create a club, specifically to create a safe space for Black students and other students of color to share experiences.

From "Finding Junie Kim" by Ellen Oh