sanctuary

[ sangk-choo-er-ee ]

noun

, plural sanc·tu·ar·ies.

1. a sacred or holy place.

   Synonyms: adytum, sanctum, shrine, altar, temple, church

2. Judaism.
   1. the Biblical tabernacle or the Temple in Jerusalem.
   2. the holy of holies of these places of worship.
3. an especially holy place in a temple or church.
4. the part of a church around the altar; the chancel.
5. a church or other sacred place where fugitives were formerly entitled to immunity from arrest.
6. immunity afforded by refuge in such a place.
7. any place of refuge; asylum.
8. a tract of land where birds and wildlife, especially those hunted for sport, can breed and take refuge in safety from hunters.

   Synonyms: preserve

sanctuary

/ ˈsæŋktjʊərɪ /

noun

1. a holy place
2. a consecrated building or shrine
3. Old Testament
   1. the Israelite temple at Jerusalem, esp the holy of holies
   2. the tabernacle in which the Ark was enshrined during the wanderings of the Israelites
4. the chancel, or that part of a sacred building surrounding the main altar
5. 1. a sacred building where fugitives were formerly entitled to immunity from arrest or execution
   2. the immunity so afforded
6. a place of refuge; asylum
7. a place, protected by law, where animals, esp birds, can live and breed without interference

Other Words From

• sanctu·aried adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of sanctuary¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, from Late Latin sānctuārium, from sānctu- (combining form of sanctus; Sanctus ) + -ārium -ary

Word History and Origins

Origin of sanctuary¹

C14: from Old French sainctuarie, from Late Latin sanctuārium repository for holy things, from Latin sanctus holy

Example Sentences

“If sanctuary cities don’t want to help us, then get out of the way, because we’re coming,” Homan said in an interview on “Fox & Friends.”

From Los Angeles Times

He sponsored the bill that turned California into a sanctuary state and helped pass important legislation on climate change and clean energy.

From Los Angeles Times

Several council members said Friday that they would hasten passage of L.A.’s “sanctuary” law, which is still under review by city attorneys, in the face of Trump’s promised crackdown on immigrants.

From Los Angeles Times

At the time, he made headlines for saying politicians who support sanctuary city policies should be charged with crimes.

From BBC

Trump has pledged to take action against these “sanctuary cities”, but America’s patchwork of local, state and federal laws further complicates the picture.

From BBC

Related Words

• asylum
• church
• harbor
• haven
• hideout
• oasis
• protection
• refuge
• resort
• retreat
• shelter