Spanish word

refugio

Pronunciation

IPA/reˈfuxjo/

Meaning

  • masculine nounshelter

Example

Durante la tormenta, buscamos refugio en la escuela.

During the storm, we sought shelter in the school.

Illustration for refugio (shelter)

More examples

El albergue ofrece refugio temporal a las personas sin hogar.

The shelter offers temporary shelter to homeless people.

Core concept

A condition or location that provides protection and relief during danger or hardship.

Common phrases

  • buscar refugio

    seek shelter

  • refugio temporal

    temporary shelter

  • refugio antiaéreo

    air-raid shelter

Similar words

asilo: Place that grants protection to people fleeing persecution or political danger.
albergue: Temporary facility offering beds and meals for people in need of shelter.
cobijo: Cover or small place that protects from rain, wind, or cold.

Definition in Spanish

Lugar o situación que ofrece protección física o apoyo emocional frente a una amenaza o dificultad.

Word origin

Derived from Latin refugium, literally 'a place to flee back to', the word moved into Spanish with a primary sense of physical shelter and a later figurative sense for emotional safety.

Usage tips

  • Common collocations are buscar refugio and dar refugio, and refugio frequently appears with en when naming what provides protection.

Other meanings

  • hideoutnoun
  • protectionnoun

Opposites

  • desamparoabandonmentnoun
  • peligrodangernoun

Related words

Word lists with this word