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 love this sort of ceremonial procession as you walk through the sphinxes and columns — these figures who have created safe space for me, literally, conceptually, spiritually,” Halsey says.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 14, 2026

In 2014, Rivera-Amador and Hollinquest founded the Radical Monarchs in Oakland — giving girls and gender expansive youth of color ages 8 through 13 a safe space to practice self-love, sisterhood and activism.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 27, 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

Then my friends and I would have a new safe space to hang out in together.

From "A Soft Place to Land" by Janae Marks