asylum

noun

asy·​lum ə-ˈsī-ləm 

1

: an inviolable place of refuge and protection giving shelter to criminals and debtors : sanctuary

2

: a place of retreat and security : shelter

3

a

: the protection or security afforded by an asylum : refuge

b

: protection from arrest and extradition given especially to political refugees by a nation or by an embassy or other agency enjoying freedom from what is required by law for most people

4

somewhat old-fashioned : an institution providing care and protection to needy individuals (such as the infirm or destitute) and especially the mentally ill

Synonyms of asylum

• refuge
• shelter
• sanctuary
• retreat

Examples of asylum in a Sentence

She asked for political asylum.

She was granted asylum after it was made clear that she would be killed if she returned to her native country.

Recent Examples on the Web

Also, it should be noted that Barack Obama’s Democratic administration, not Trump’s, pioneered the modern policy of blocking asylum-seekers at the border, addressing a surge in Haitian migrants in 2016. — The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2026

Those with humanitarian statuses such as refugees and people granted asylum are no longer eligible, with the state department of social services estimating that 72,000 Californians will lose their benefits. — Lizzie Kane july 11, Sacbee.com, 11 July 2026

But the next morning, Wilber, 18, was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement during a routine check-in as part of his family’s ongoing asylum application. — Itzel Luna, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2026

Local nonprofits are encouraging people to apply for asylum, though the process is lengthy and offers no guarantee of protection from deportation. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 10 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Latin, from Greek asylon, neuter of asylos inviolable, from a- + sylon right of seizure

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing asylum

• insane asylum

Rhymes for asylum

• phylum
• whilom
• xylem

Kids Definition

asylum

noun

asy·​lum ə-ˈsī-ləm 

1

: a place of safety : shelter

2

: protection given especially to political refugees

3

: an institution for the care of those unable to care for themselves and especially for the mentally ill

Medical Definition

asylum

noun

asy·​lum ə-ˈsī-ləm 

: an institution providing care and protection to needy individuals (such as the infirm or destitute) and especially the mentally ill

Legal Definition

asylum

noun

asy·​lum ə-ˈsī-ləm 

: protection from arrest and extradition given especially to political refugees by a nation or by an embassy or other agency that has diplomatic immunity