haven

noun

ha·​ven ˈhā-vən 

1

: harbor, port

2

: a place of safety : refuge

3

: a place offering favorable opportunities or conditions

a haven for artists

haven transitive verb

Synonyms of haven

• harbor
• port
• anchorage

Examples of haven in a Sentence

The shelter offers a haven from abusive spouses.

The inn is a haven for weary travelers.

This national park provides a safe haven for wildlife.

Recent Examples on the Web

Florida has a colorful history as a haven for smugglers and scammers. — Mike Ryan, Sun Sentinel, 24 Sep. 2026

One of the factors that helps keep inflation low is the Swiss franc's safe-haven status. — Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 24 Sep. 2026

Miami remains the perennial grande dame, while further north, in the Palm Beaches, travelers encounter charming vias tucked behind Worth Avenue and unspoiled wildlife havens. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Sep. 2026

The Lighthouse for the Blind of Fort Worth has for decades been a haven for the blind and visually impaired, serving upwards of 3,000 clients annually in recent years. — Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 Sep. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English hæfen; akin to Middle High German habene harbor

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing haven

• safe haven
• tax haven

Rhymes for haven

• craven
• flavin
• graven
• maven
• pavan
• raven
• shaven
• engraven
• unshaven
• riboflavin

Kids Definition

haven

noun

ha·​ven ˈhā-vən 

1

: harbor entry 1 sense 2, port

2

: a place of safety : shelter