safe-conduct

[ seyf-kon-duhkt ]

noun

1. a document authorizing safe passage through a region, especially in time of war.
2. this privilege.
3. the act of conducting in safety.

safe-conduct

noun

1. a document giving official permission to travel through a region, esp in time of war
2. the protection afforded by such a document

verb

1. to conduct (a person) in safety
2. to give a safe-conduct to

Word History and Origins

Origin of safe-conduct¹

1250–1300; Middle English sauf condut < Middle French sauf-conduit

Example Sentences

Narváez gave the former NSA contractor a so-called safe-conduct pass when he left Hong Kong for Moscow, where Snowden eventually found asylum.

From The Guardian

But anyone could have bought it before the war or stolen it, and it had no merit as a safe-conduct pass.

From Literature

Lastly, this body would work with Jewish organizations to standardize and implement safe-conduct policies for working with congregants, campers, students and other constituents.

From Washington Post

“True words, man Lancelot. Ye came under safe-conduct and sanctuary, to bring the Queen, but ye shall go hence as the murderer ye are.”

From Literature

Brasilia granted him asylum but the Bolivian government denied him a safe-conduct to leave the country and he lived in the embassy for 15 months.

From Reuters

Related Words

• allowance
• charter
• concession
• consent
• go ahead
• grant
• license
• passport
• patent
• permission
• privilege
• visa
• warrant