Asylum - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Asylum refers to protection or shelter granted by a country to someone fleeing persecution or danger in their homeland. It can also mean a safe place or refuge for those in need.
Definition:
Protection granted by a nation to someone fleeing persecution or danger in their home country.
Synonyms:
sanctuary, refuge, shelter, haven
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
danger, persecution
Common Collocations:
seek asylum, grant asylum, political asylum, asylum seeker
Derivatives:
asylee, asylums
Usage Tips:
Use "asylum" to refer to legal protection for refugees; avoid using it casually for general shelter.
Common Phrases:
political asylum, seek asylum, insane asylum (dated)
Etymology:
From Greek "asylon," meaning "inviolable," via Latin "asylum," referring to a place of refuge.
Examples:
- 1. She sought asylum after fleeing her war-torn country.
- 2. The government granted him asylum due to political persecution.
- 3. Many refugees hope to find asylum in safer nations.
- 4. The old building once served as an insane asylum (historical context).