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shelter

noun

/ˈʃɛl tər/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of shelter

A place or structure that provides protection, safety, and refuge from external elements, dangers, or adverse conditions.
"The homeless man sought shelter under the bridge to escape the cold wind."

Detailed meaning of shelter

It serves as a shield or haven, shielding individuals or animals from inclement weather, extreme temperatures, or harm. A shelter can take various forms, such as a house, building, tent, cave, or even a makeshift arrangement. It serves as a sanctuary, offering a sense of security and a space where one can find solace and temporary relief from the surrounding environment. Shelters are often essential during emergencies, natural disasters, or for those experiencing homelessness, as they provide basic human needs like warmth, privacy, and protection. Furthermore, shelters can also be spaces for animals, providing them with a place to rest and seek refuge from predators or harsh environmental conditions. In summary, a shelter is a physical structure or location that offers safety, comfort, and protection to individuals or animals in need.

Example sentences containing shelter

1. The storm forced us to take shelter in the basement until it passed.
2. The animal shelter provides a safe haven for abandoned pets.
3. The hikers found a small shelter in the woods to protect themselves from the rain.
4. The refugees sought shelter in a nearby camp after fleeing their war-torn country.
5. During the camping trip, we set up our tent as a makeshift shelter for the night.
6. The hurricane survivors were grateful for the temporary shelter provided by the Red Cross.

History and etymology of shelter

The noun 'shelter' has an etymology that traces its origins to the Old English word 'sceald,' which meant a protective covering or shield. This Old English term is derived from the Proto-Germanic root '*skelduz,' signifying something that shields or protects. Over time, 'sceald' evolved into 'shelter' in Middle English, retaining its fundamental sense of providing protection and refuge. The word has since become synonymous with a place or structure that offers safety and security from external elements, dangers, or adverse conditions, reflecting its rich historical journey through the English language.

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Further usage examples of shelter

1. The stray cat found shelter in an abandoned building during the winter months.
2. The mountaineers took shelter in a cave as a snowstorm approached.
3. The homeless shelter offers a warm bed and meals for those in need.
4. The campground had communal shelters where campers could gather during heavy rainfall.
5. The bird built a nest as a shelter for its eggs high up in the tree.
6. The shelter stood strong amidst the raging storm, offering solace.
7. Homeless individuals sought refuge in the city's makeshift shelter.
8. The mountain climbers found shelter in a cozy alpine cabin.
9. A beachside shelter shielded us from the scorching sun.
10. The emergency shelter provided warmth to the freezing refugees.
11. The national park had a rustic shelter for weary hikers.
12. Birds sought shelter in the thick canopy during the downpour.
13. Our cozy cabin in the woods was the perfect shelter.
14. The storm cellar served as our family's shelter during tornadoes.
15. The desert nomads built a simple shelter from palm fronds.
16. The cozy shelter had a crackling fireplace and comfy chairs.
17. The animal shelter was filled with wagging tails and purring cats.
18. He found shelter beneath the massive oak tree during the rain.
19. The coastal town had a hurricane-proof shelter for residents.
20. The snow-covered shelter provided refuge for lost skiers.
21. The explorer built a snow shelter to survive the blizzard.
22. The old lighthouse served as a historic shelter by the sea.
23. The refugee camp offered shelter to those fleeing conflict.
24. The cozy shelter in the woods had a bubbling hot tub.
25. The village had a communal shelter for its inhabitants.