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

"I think sometimes there's a common misconception that young people are there to cause trouble when actually they just want to connect with their friends and become happier and healthier in a safe space."

From BBC • Mar. 21, 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

She suggests seeing a therapist to try to get to the root of that regret, and talk "in a safe space where you won't be judged".

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

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

From Salon • Mar. 6, 2026

“Don’t worry, Joy. I bet you Ziggy is fine. You know, dogs are resourceful animals. They always manage to find a safe space when they need one. He’ll turn up. We’ll keep searching.”

From "A Soft Place to Land" by Janae Marks