Synonyms of sanctuary

sanctuary

noun

ˈsaŋ(k)-chə-ˌwer-ē 

1

as in shrine

a place that is considered sacred (as within a religion)

by law, anyone who sought refuge in a religious sanctuary was safe from arrest by the civil authorities

Synonyms & Similar Words

• shrine
• sanctum
• reliquary
• martyry

2

as in refuge

something (as a building) that offers cover from the weather or protection from danger

the marshland has been set aside as a sanctuary for shorebirds along that section of the coast

Synonyms & Similar Words

• refuge
• shelter
• retreat
• haven
• residence
• asylum
• sanctum
• harbor
• oasis
• bolt-hole
• lodging
• abode
• harborage
• hideout
• housing
• dwelling
• port
• rest
• house
• anchorage
• fortress
• stronghold
• habitation
• quarters
• cloister
• domicile
• roof
• screen
• mooring
• place
• den
• castle
• fort
• lair
• closet
• hideaway
• shed
• cover
• pad
• hermitage
• diggings
• palisade
• lee
• windbreak
• lodgment
• redoubt
• fastness
• covert
• lean-to

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of sanctuary

Islamabad has repeatedly accused Afghanistan’s Taliban government of providing sanctuary to TTP militants, an allegation Kabul denies. — ABC News, 30 July 2026

Beyond a better understanding of positive inter-species relationships among apes and monkeys, the researchers say further analysis could also benefit mixed animal facilities at wildlife sanctuaries and zoos. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 30 July 2026

The Supreme Court last month cleared the way for Haitians who sought sanctuary in the United States after natural disasters and political unrest in the Caribbean island nation to lose that protection. — Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 30 July 2026

Last fall, excavators uncovered a Roman military hospital that was later converted into a Christian sanctuary in the ancient Turkish city of Kaunos. — Andrea Margolis, FOXNews.com, 30 July 2026