as in refuge
something (as a building) that offers cover from the weather or protection from danger
her cottage in the Lake District served as her bolt-hole whenever the stresses of London became too great
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Recent Examples of bolt-hole
The Broadwick Soho’s Flute James MacDonald Broadwick Soho For 57-room bolt-hole Broadwick Soho, owner Noel Hayden was inspired by his 1980s upbringing in a quirky hotel in Dorset.
—
Toby Skinner, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Feb. 2024
Around that time, some smaller properties also debuted — boutique charmers like Castello di Vicarello, Borgo Santo Pietro, Villa Fontelunga, and the Val d'Orcia bolt-hole La Bandita Country Hotel.
—Lee Marshall, Travel + Leisure, 14 May 2023
Toby Skinner, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Feb. 2024
Around that time, some smaller properties also debuted — boutique charmers like Castello di Vicarello, Borgo Santo Pietro, Villa Fontelunga, and the Val d'Orcia bolt-hole La Bandita Country Hotel.
—Lee Marshall, Travel + Leisure, 14 May 2023
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bolt-hole
Noun
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Gold has historically been considered a refuge during times of economic volatility, with investors flocking to the metal during stretches of inflation, fiat currency risks and political crises.—
Hugh Cameron,
MSNBC Newsweek,
4 Sep. 2025
-
One favorite was Château Branlant, a ski-in refuge known for its tight menu of regional classics, deep wine list, and family-run warmth.—
Erica Firpo,
Forbes.com,
3 Sep. 2025
Noun
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The Hidden Hills home represents a softer, more private chapter in Lopez’s real estate story, offering her a secluded retreat after a tumultuous few years in the public eye.—
Abby Montanez,
Robb Report,
5 Sep. 2025
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Still, as other big banks retreat, Bank of America is leaning in.—
Angela Palermo,
Idaho Statesman,
5 Sep. 2025
Noun
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If the sky becomes menacing and thunder becomes audible, seek out a safe place to seek shelter.—
NC Weather Bot,
Charlotte Observer,
14 Aug. 2025
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By the end of the year, 103,000 more pets had entered shelters than had exited, contributing to an ongoing capacity crisis in U.S. shelters.—
Alice Gibbs,
MSNBC Newsweek,
14 Aug. 2025
Noun
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Well-meaning people sometimes disturb the fawn and bring it to a wildlife sanctuary, thinking it has been abandoned.—
Rachael O'Connor,
MSNBC Newsweek,
2 Sep. 2025
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Beyond the late nights and electronic music scene, Ibiza can be a sanctuary, a place where Black women can embrace rest, beauty and intentional travel without the pressure to shrink, explain or conform.—
Essence,
Essence,
1 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Once the Islay Hotel, this property has been transformed into a snug haven with views over the harbor.—
Nicole Trilivas,
Forbes.com,
26 Aug. 2025
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To honor the moment, Allen took her Academy’s mission of accessibility, artistry, and community to Martha’s Vineyard—an island long regarded as a cultural haven for Black excellence.—
Shelby Stewart,
Essence,
26 Aug. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Bolt-hole.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bolt-hole. Accessed 6 Sep. 2025.
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