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

People milled around the sanctuary, greeting one another warmly. — Emma Green, New Yorker, 29 Oct. 2026

Audrey Hepburn’s Swiss estate was her sanctuary away from Hollywood. — Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 29 Oct. 2026

Don’t miss wearable glass costumes, an interactive botanical soundscape, glowing geometric light sanctuaries, and works by Dale Chihuly and other modern masters. — Kari Barnett, Sun Sentinel, 28 Oct. 2026

There’s an emotional reward in seeing a donkey healthy and either finding a new home or living with others at the sanctuary. — Brayden Garcia october 28, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Oct. 2026