Asylum

/əˈsaɪ.ləm/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The protection granted by a nation to someone who has fled their homeland for safety, especially due to persecution.

After facing threats in his home country, he sought asylum in the United States.

An institution for the care of people with mental illnesses or disabilities.

She was admitted to the mental asylum for treatment and rehabilitation.

A place offering protection and safety; a sanctuary.

The church provided asylum for those fleeing violence.

From Latin 'asylum', meaning 'refuge, sanctuary'.

seek asylum

To apply for protection in another country.

asylum seeker

A person who seeks refuge in another country due to persecution.

political asylum

Asylum granted to individuals persecuted for political reasons.

refuge

A state of safety or protection.

sanctuary

A place of safety or shelter.

persecution

The act of harassing or oppressing someone.

Crazy house

After that party, it felt like we were in an asylum.

Loony bin

He joked about being sent to the asylum after his wild antics.