asylum
Translation
asylum, refuge, sanctuary, mental hospital
Examples
They sought political asylum in another country.
They sought political asylum in another country.
The old building was once an asylum.
The old building was once an asylum.
Grammar Patterns
((as an uncountable noun)) protection granted by a nation to a refugee. They sought political asylum.
((as a countable noun)) an institution for the care of people who are mentally ill (dated). The old building was once an asylum.
Similar Words
Synonyms: refuge, sanctuary, shelter, protection
Etymology
From Greek 'asulon' (refuge), from 'a-' (without) + 'sulon' (right of seizure), meaning a place safe from being seized.
Memory Tips
Think of it as a safe place, away from 'a silly' or dangerous situation.