sanctuary

Pronunciation

• (UK) IPA ^(key): /ˈsæŋktjʊəri/ or /ˈsæŋkt͡ʃʊəri/
• (US) IPA ^(key): /ˈsæŋkt͡ʃuˌɛri/

• Audio (UK)

  (file)

• Hyphenation: sanc‧tu‧ary

Noun

Singular sanctuary

Plural sanctuaries

1. (countable) A sanctuary is a place of safety, refuge, or protection.
   • Synonyms: haven, presbytery, refuge and shelter

   My car is a sanctuary, where none can disturb me except for people who cut me off.

2. (countable) A sanctuary is an area set aside for protection.

   The bird sanctuary has strict restrictions on visitors so the birds aren't disturbed.

3. (uncountable) Sanctuary is a state of being protected.
   • Synonym: asylum

   The government granted sanctuary to the defector, protecting him from his former government.