haven

noun

ha·​ven ˈhā-vən How to pronounce haven (audio)
Synonyms of havennext
1
2
: a place of safety : refuge
3
: a place offering favorable opportunities or conditions
a haven for artists
haven transitive verb

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
When stocks hit a rough patch, or economic uncertainty abounds, safe haven assets like gold or government bonds can provide investors with some protection. John Towfighi, CNN Money, 26 Mar. 2026 Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of providing a safe haven for militants who carry out attacks inside Pakistan, especially for the Pakistani Taliban. ABC News, 26 Mar. 2026 Bankrate Financial Analyst Stephen Kates said for the average consumer looking for a haven in today’s environment, high-yield savings accounts and certificates of deposit are good options. Rachel Barber, USA Today, 25 Mar. 2026 The precious metal has notched a quick succession of bearish milestones this week, a surprising move for an asset class many would consider a safe haven in the midst of an ongoing war. Sarah Min, CNBC, 25 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for haven

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of haven was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Haven.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/haven. Accessed 29 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

haven

noun
ha·​ven ˈhā-vən How to pronounce haven (audio)
1
2
: a place of safety : shelter

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