variants
also sancta
1
as in shrines
a place that is considered sacred (as within a religion)
the city of Jerusalem is an important sanctum for Christians, Jews, and Muslims alike
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
2
as in refuges
something (as a building) that offers cover from the weather or protection from danger
used the cabin in the woods as a sanctum from the commotion and interference of his family
Synonyms & Similar Words
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of sanctums
The 17 suites of the new hotel are similarly minimalist sanctums made of polished concrete and dark wood, tucked away in a wilderness fantasia and connected to a main building where guests congregate around an infinity pool and elegant restaurant.
—
David Amsden, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025
David Amsden, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sanctums
Noun
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From the facade crafted from hinoki wood, a rare cypress that’s often reserved for Japanese temples and shrines, to impressive cultural programming and exhibitions, there’s always something worth seeing.—
Jade Moyano,
Travel + Leisure,
5 Nov. 2025
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The alleged crimes include graffiti left on churches and religious shrines of different denominations in Bankers Hill, Golden Hill, Hillcrest and North Park, police said.—
Karen Kucher,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
23 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Hugging Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast, Limón province is rich with natural wonders, from its white-sand beaches to its multiple wildlife refuges and volcanic landscapes.—
Lydia Price,
Travel + Leisure,
6 Nov. 2025
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Lodging options vary from winter campsites and rustic cottages, to cozy micro-refuges and larger chalets.—
Outside,
Outside,
3 Nov. 2025
Noun
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After years of minimalism and raw finishes, people crave comfort and warmth, especially in a post-pandemic world where homes serve as sanctuaries.—
Farima Ferguson,
The Spruce,
7 Jan. 2026
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The guest rooms skew coastal, with pale wood accents and white walls, while bathrooms are true sanctuaries, complete with soaking tubs and thick robes.—
AFAR Media,
AFAR Media,
30 Dec. 2025
Noun
-
Will Sacramento shelters close?—
Theresa Clift,
Sacbee.com,
10 Jan. 2026
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Now, Sacramento city leaders are considering a ban on any new homeless shelters in the area.—
James Taylor,
CBS News,
9 Jan. 2026
Noun
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In Southern California, Ojai is a serene haven of spiritual retreats, boutique shopping, and lush orange groves.—
Amplified Content Studio,
Mercury News,
7 Jan. 2026
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These natural springs can be enjoyed at traditional properties like Fujiya Ryokan or at modern retreats such as Amanemu, where guests have access to spa onsens and private onsen baths in every suite and villa.—
Taryn White,
Travel + Leisure,
6 Jan. 2026
Noun
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Other safe havens Gold has been the main beneficiary of developments in Venezuela, following a streak of record highs in 2025.—
Lee Ying Shan,
CNBC,
5 Jan. 2026
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Such assets are often considered safe havens in times of geopolitical turmoil.—
Damian J. Troise,
Los Angeles Times,
5 Jan. 2026
Noun
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The nine occupied residences are uninhabitable following the fire.—
Caelyn Pender,
Mercury News,
11 Jan. 2026
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The blast caused part of the home — including the roof and parts of walls — to collapse, and damaged three other nearby residences, according to ABC News and the BBC.—
Bailey Richards,
PEOPLE,
11 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Sanctums.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sanctums. Accessed 12 Jan. 2026.
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