# sheltered

/ˈʃɛɫtɝd/ (US) · /ʃˈɛltəd/ (UK)

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

## Senses

### 1. protected from weather

adjective · CEFR B1

protected from wind, rain, or other bad weather.

For teachers: physically shielded from adverse weather conditions, particularly wind or precipitation.

- We found a sheltered spot under the trees to have our picnic during the storm.
- The harbour provides a sheltered anchorage for small vessels, protecting them from the prevailing westerly winds that batter the outer coast.

### 2. overprotected by parents

adjective · CEFR B2

having a life where you are protected too much from difficult or unpleasant experiences.

For teachers: describing an upbringing or lifestyle that shields a person from the harsh realities, dangers, or negative aspects of the world.

- He had a very sheltered childhood and didn't know how to pay bills when he moved out.
- Growing up in an affluent, gated community, she led a sheltered life that left her ill-prepared for the social complexities of the inner city.

Teaching tip: This sense often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying the person lacks practical life skills or maturity.

## Examples

- He had a very sheltered childhood in a small village.
- Growing up in a wealthy, gated community left her somewhat sheltered from the economic realities of the city.
- The protagonist's journey serves as a transition from a sheltered existence to a more nuanced understanding of social inequality and personal responsibility.

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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.