Refuge
/ˈrefjuːdʒ/
Definitions
3 meaningsA place or situation providing protection from danger, difficulty, or the like.
/ˈrefjuːdʒ/
A condition of being safe or sheltered from pursuit, danger, or trouble.
The mountains provided refuge from the invaders.
💡 Simply: Imagine a cozy blanket on a rainy day. Refuge is like that safe, comforting place where you can get away from the bad stuff, like a scary storm or a bully at school. It's like your own personal fort!
👶 For kids: A safe place where you can go when you need to hide or be protected.
More Examples
She found refuge in her faith during difficult times.
The library was a refuge for him during the summer heat.
How It's Used
"They sought refuge from the storm in a nearby cave."
"The displaced people found refuge in a temporary camp."
A person who has been forced to leave their country in order to escape war, persecution, or natural disaster.
/ˈrefjuːdʒ/
Thousands of refugees have sought asylum in neighboring countries.
💡 Simply: A person is forced to leave their home country because it's not safe anymore. They are looking for a place to be safe.
👶 For kids: Someone who has to leave their home because it's not safe, and they're looking for a new, safe place to live.
More Examples
The organization provides assistance to refugees.
The government is struggling to cope with the refugee crisis.
How It's Used
"International law protects the rights of refugees."
"The country is facing a large influx of refugees."
To provide shelter or a safe place for someone.
/rɪˈfjuːdʒ/
To take shelter or find a place to stay.
The wildlife refuged in the forest.
💡 Simply: To be safe or protected from something, like the rain.
👶 For kids: To find a safe place to stay.
More Examples
The animals refuged in their burrows.
We refuged in the old barn during the storm.
How It's Used
"The birds refuged in the thick branches."
"They refuged in the cabin during the blizzard."
Synonyms
Asylum
Haven
Protection
Exile
Immigrant
Harbor
Protect
From Middle French *refuge* (shelter, protection), from Italian *rifugio*, from *rifuggire* (to take refuge, avoid). Ultimately from Latin *refugere* (to flee back, to retreat).
The word has been used since the 14th century, originally referring to a place or condition of safety. Its usage expanded to include people seeking asylum in the 20th century.
Memory tip
Think of a safe house where you can relax and be protected when you need it.