sanc
tua
ry
Plural
sanctuaries
1
an area for birds and animals to live and to be protected from dangerous conditions and being hunted
- The wildlife sanctuary provides a safe habitat for endangered species to thrive.
- Visitors can observe a variety of birds and animals in their natural habitat at the sanctuary.
- The sanctuary is managed by conservationists who work to preserve biodiversity and protect wildlife.
- Volunteers help maintain trails and monitor wildlife activity within the sanctuary.
- Education programs at the sanctuary teach visitors about conservation and the importance of protecting natural habitats.
2
a place of protection from danger or hardship
- The church became a sanctuary for refugees fleeing the conflict in their homeland.
- During the storm, the small cabin served as a sanctuary from the harsh weather.
- She found sanctuary in her grandmother’s house when her life became overwhelming.
- The underground shelter acted as a sanctuary for civilians during the air raids.
- After escaping the oppressive regime, they sought sanctuary in a neighboring country.
3
the most sacred, innermost chamber of a temple or church, reserved for housing and venerating holy relics, icons, or scriptures
- The high priest slipped through the crimson curtain into the sanctuary to tend the gold-plated reliquary.
- Pilgrims paused at the ornate grille, gazing into the sanctuary where the saint's bones rested.
- Only the abbot was allowed to carry the ancient scroll into the sanctuary each dawn.
- Archaeologists uncovered frescoed walls in the temple's sanctuary, still bearing the faces of vanished deities.
- Behind the heavy oak door lay the sanctuary, its marble floor polished by centuries of pious footsteps.
4
a place used for worship, rituals, and religious ceremonies
- The sanctuary was beautifully decorated for the holiday service, attracting many worshippers.
- The ancient sanctuary was a pilgrimage site for people seeking spiritual healing.
- The community gathered in the sanctuary to celebrate the wedding of two beloved members.
- He felt a deep connection to the sanctuary, having attended services there since childhood.
- The sanctuary was open to all, providing a welcoming space for meditation and reflection.