shelters
n. countable B1 Intermediate US //ˈʃɛɫtɝz// UK //ʃˈɛltəz// shel·ters
n. places that provide protection from bad weather or danger. You use this word for buildings where people or animals can stay when they have nowhere else to go.
n. structures or locations providing temporary protection from environmental hazards or danger. Often refers to charitable facilities for the homeless or displaced animals.
The hikers looked for shelters during the heavy rain.
The city opened several emergency shelters to protect residents from the approaching hurricane.
Architects are designing modular shelters that can be rapidly deployed to provide dignified housing for refugees in conflict zones.
Usage
Often used in the plural when referring to a network of facilities or general protection.