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

The Whale Sanctuary Project is creating a sanctuary for whales off Canada’s east coast. — Finnegan Belleau, Chicago Tribune, 23 Sep. 2026

Knauss also shared photos of the devastation from the hurricane, which showed chairs overturned in the sanctuary and pools of water that damaged every corner of the facility. — Raymond Strickland, CBS News, 21 Sep. 2026

The Milwaukee Public Library is quickly becoming a sanctuary for local musicians. — Anya Sesay, jsonline.com, 21 Sep. 2026

On a recent Sunday in early September, there were noticeable empty pews in the sanctuary which holds 1,000 around people at capacity. — Lauren Costantino september 19, Miami Herald, 19 Sep. 2026