noun

haven

haven, refuge, sanctuary

The harbor is a safe haven for ships.

The harbour is a safe haven for ships.

Her library is a haven of peace and quiet.

Her library is a haven of peace and quiet.

a haven for ((sb./sth.)) a place of safety for (sb./sth.) The park is a haven for wildlife.

a haven of ((sth.)) a place characterised by (sth.) Her home is a haven of peace.

Synonyms: refuge, sanctuary, shelter; Antonyms: danger, peril

From Old English 'hæfen' (harbour), related to 'habban' meaning 'to have, hold'. A place that 'holds' ships.

It sounds like 'heaven,' a place of ultimate safety and peace. Imagine a safe harbour as a little piece of heaven for sailors.

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