Definition of: refuge

(ref′yj) noun
1. Shelter or protection, as from danger or distress.
2. One who or that which shelters or protects.
3. A safe place; asylum.
4. Brit. A raised or enclosed safety area for the use of pedestrians at busy street crossings.
—v.t. & v.i. Obs. To give or take refuge. [<OF <L refugium <refugere retreat <re- back + fugere flee] Synonyms (noun): asylum, cover, covert, harbor, hiding–place, protection, retreat, sanctuary, stronghold. See SHELTER.