# haven

/ˈheɪvən/ (US) · /hˈeɪvən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/haven
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. a safe place

noun · CEFR B2

a place where you are protected from danger or trouble.

For teachers: a place of safety, refuge, or sanctuary from danger or distress.

- The library was a quiet haven for students during the busy exam week.
- The mountain cabin served as a haven for the hikers when the sudden blizzard made the trails impassable.

### 2. a peaceful place

noun · CEFR B2

a calm and beautiful place where you can relax.

For teachers: a tranquil or peaceful environment that offers a rest from noise or activity.

- Her small garden is a haven of peace in the middle of the noisy city.
- The spa was designed to be a haven of relaxation, featuring soft lighting and the gentle sound of running water throughout the facility.

### 3. a sheltered harbour

noun · CEFR C1 · Literary

a place where ships can stay safely away from the rough sea.

For teachers: an inlet or harbour providing shelter for ships or boats; often used in historical or literary contexts.

- The fishing boats returned to the haven as the storm clouds gathered.
- The ancient mariners sought a natural haven along the rocky coastline to protect their fleet from the approaching gale.

## Examples

- The garden is a peaceful haven for birds.
- During the storm, the small harbor served as a haven for the fishing boats.
- The library provided a quiet haven for students seeking to escape the frantic energy of the campus during finals week.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.