refuge
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
a place that provides protection or shelter from danger or trouble.
a physical location or structure providing shelter or protection from pursuit, danger, or difficulty.
Simple“The hikers found a small cave that provided refuge from the sudden storm.”
In context“The mountain hut served as a vital refuge for climbers caught in the unexpected blizzard, offering warmth and safety until the weather cleared.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the state of being safe or protected from something bad.
the abstract state of being sheltered or protected from pursuit, danger, or difficulty.
Simple“Many people sought refuge in the basement during the heavy winds.”
In context“The embassy provided political refuge to the activists, ensuring their safety while diplomatic negotiations were conducted.”
Synonyms - 03 C1 Advanced
a 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.
Simple“When work became too stressful, music was his only refuge.”
In context“In times of national crisis, the public often seeks refuge in traditional values and historical narratives to find a sense of stability.”
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
a 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.
Simple“Wait on the refuge until the cars on the other side have passed.”
In context“The city council installed several pedestrian refuges along the main road to improve safety for students walking to the nearby primary school.”
Synonymspedestrian islandtraffic island
“Of those who followed the order, about 20 spent the night in a sports hall, while others sought refuge with family and friends.”
“In Italy, Germany and Spain, I sought refuge from the afternoon sun in air-conditioned hotels.”
From Middle English refuge, from Old French refuge, from Latin refugium, from re- + fugiō (“flee”). Doublet of refugium.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.