Sanctuary Definition & Meaning | Britannica Dictionary (original) (raw)

Britannica Dictionary definition of SANCTUARY

1

[count]

:

a place where someone or something is protected or given shelter

• wildlife/bird sanctuaries
• The house was a sanctuary for runaway teens.

— often used figuratively

• Her garden was a sanctuary from the stress of daily life. [=she felt relaxed and free from stress when she was in her garden]

2

[noncount]

:

the protection that is provided by a safe place

• The refugees found/sought sanctuary when they crossed the border.

3

[count]

a

US

:

the room inside a church, synagogue, etc., where religious services are held

b

:

the most sacred or holy part of a religious building

• The sanctuary contains the altar of sacrifice.