English Meaning & Definitions
A place of temporary or permanent refuge that provides protection from bad weather, danger, or attack.
- “The hikers sought shelter in a small cave when the thunderstorm began.”
- “The city opened an emergency shelter for the homeless during the freezing winter night.”
To provide or afford protection or cover from danger, bad weather, or observation.
- “The thick canopy of the forest sheltered the animals from the scorching sun.”
- “He tried to shelter his younger brother from the harsh realities of their financial situation.”
English Synonyms & Near Equivalents
English Antonyms & Opposites
Comprehensive Thesaurus Breakdown
Compare formal, informal, literary synonyms and register nuances for “shelter”.
Originating in the late 16th century, the word is of uncertain etymology. It is likely derived from the Middle English 'scheltrun' (a shield-troop or formation of soldiers), which comes from Old English 'scieldtruma' (shield-troop), combining 'scield' (shield) and 'truma' (troop). It evolved to signify any structure or condition that provides protection.
Think of a 'shell' that 'turns' away the rain; a shell-turner is a shelter.
Frequently Asked Questions About “shelter”
1. What is the meaning of “shelter” in English?
In English, shelter (noun) is defined as: “A place of temporary or permanent refuge that provides protection from bad weather, danger, or attack.”.
2. How do you use “shelter” in a sentence?
“The hikers sought shelter in a small cave when the thunderstorm began.”
3. What are English synonyms of “shelter”?
4. What is the etymology and word origin of “shelter”?
Originating in the late 16th century, the word is of uncertain etymology. It is likely derived from the Middle English 'scheltrun' (a shield-troop or formation of soldiers), which comes from Old English 'scieldtruma' (shield-troop), combining 'scield' (shield) and 'truma' (troop). It evolved to signify any structure or condition that provides protection.
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