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

Another beloved mattress-in-a-box is from Avocado, a haven for eco-conscious shoppers who want a brand that prioritizes the environment as much as restful Zzzs. —Blake Bakkila, Architectural Digest, 12 Mar. 2026

Much like vampires avoid sunlight for their health, darkness, in turn, represents a safe haven. —Literary Hub, 12 Mar. 2026

In 2025, the highway haven, beloved most for its Southern food and country-store atmosphere, drew widespread attention (and fan backlash) due to a modernization push that included refreshed interiors and a simplified logo. —Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 12 Mar. 2026

The rooms Packed with personality and thoughtful details of Boholano heritage, guest spaces are havens of warm wood and handicrafts. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Mar. 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