refuge

[ref-yooj] / ˈrɛf yudʒ /

NOUN

place to hide, have privacy

Synonyms

STRONGEST

asylum fortress haven hideaway hideout hiding place protection resort retreat sanctuary security shelter stronghold

STRONG

ambush anchorage cover covert den escape exit expedient harbor harborage hole home immunity makeshift opening outlet port preserve recourse resource shield stopgap

WEAK

ivory tower safe place way-out

Antonyms

STRONG

closure entrance permanent solid

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Despite using the Bay as a potential feeding refuge, many whales do not survive.

From Science Daily • Apr. 13, 2026

"These systems can provide refuge for marine species, improve water quality and help rebuild biodiversity in some of our most impacted coastal areas."

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

That same evening, panicked residents of Tehran tried to flee north to the shores of the Caspian Sea, where many had sought refuge during the very first days of the war.

From Barron's • Apr. 8, 2026

Leaving the refuge, the vibrant color palette and moisture give way to muted browns and the returning austerity of desert air.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 7, 2026

It was the twins she should go for—they would be her refuge.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan

Vocabulary lists containing refuge

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