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

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

Playing golf is surely a refuge for Woods, but he doesn’t need that now.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 29, 2026

"It also means that person must have refuge, they must have the support services when they decide to leave."

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2026

Powell’s had always been her private hideaway, her refuge.

From "Chasing Vermeer" by Blue Balliett

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