refuge
n.-
1 a safe place (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatea place that provides protection or shelter from danger or trouble.
a physical location or structure providing shelter or protection from pursuit, danger, or difficulty.
ExampleThe hikers found a small cave that provided refuge from the sudden storm.
ExampleThe mountain hut served as a vital refuge for climbers caught in the unexpected blizzard, offering warmth and safety until the weather cleared.
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2 the state of being safe (n.) B2 Upper Intermediatethe state of being safe or protected from something bad.
the abstract state of being sheltered or protected from pursuit, danger, or difficulty.
ExampleMany people sought refuge in the basement during the heavy winds.
ExampleThe embassy provided political refuge to the activists, ensuring their safety while diplomatic negotiations were conducted.
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3 someone or something you turn to (n.) C1 Advanced Formala person or thing that you turn to for help when you are in a difficult situation.
a person, activity, or entity resorted to for assistance or security in times of distress.
ExampleWhen work became too stressful, music was his only refuge.
ExampleIn times of national crisis, the public often seeks refuge in traditional values and historical narratives to find a sense of stability.
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4 traffic island (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate British Englisha small raised area in the middle of a road where people can wait safely while crossing.
a pedestrian island or median strip designed to provide a safe waiting area for those crossing a busy thoroughfare.
ExampleWait on the refuge until the cars on the other side have passed.
ExampleThe city council installed several pedestrian refuges along the main road to improve safety for students walking to the nearby primary school.
- pedestrian island
- traffic island
From Middle English refuge, from Old French refuge, from Latin refugium, from re- + fugiō (“flee”). Doublet of refugium.
- Nounrefuge
- Nounrefugee