Definitions

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.

But AB5 also led to Hollywood Fringe becoming a refuge for artists, who can stage their shows independently while enjoying the institutional backing of a ticketing system, publicity and other benefits.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 10, 2026

Valuations offer refuge in an otherwise expensive world.

From Barron's • Jun. 5, 2026

She says she seeks refuge from the madness, even if it’s just taking a bath and staring at the wall.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 4, 2026

Consequences of the conflict also spilled across the border into India, with thousands of people, many from Myanmar's Chin ethnic minority, taking refuge in India's north-eastern states of Mizoram and Manipur.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

Trembling, Matthias took refuge in an old beech trunk that had once been riven by lightning.

From "Redwall" by Brian Jacques

Vocabulary lists containing refuge

The Star-Spangled Banner

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

Persepolis

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!