Emergency Shelter: Definition, Examples & Usage

Meaning 1：temporary safe place (Emergency Shelter)

Emergency Shelter 🔊

/ɪˈmɜːrdʒənsi ˈʃɛltər/

A safe place set up to give people temporary protection and basic help during a disaster or other urgent situation.

Emergency shelter interior with beds and volunteers helping people

temporary safe place 🔊

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/ˈtɛmpəˌrɛri seɪf pleɪs/

A secure location established quickly to provide protection and basic necessities to people affected by a crisis or disaster.

📁 Category：Buildings & Places 🔖 Level：intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Emerge (Latin 'emergere' = rise out) + Shelter (Old English 'scield' = shield). Together: a place raised to shield from danger.

💡 Mnemonic

Imagine a giant umbrella labeled 'EMERGENCY' popping up over a crowd during a storm – that's an emergency shelter.

📖 Example

After the earthquake, the local school gym was quickly turned into an emergency shelter for families who lost their homes. 🔊 After the earthquake, the local school gym was quickly turned into an emergency shelter for families who lost their homes.

🔗 Collocations

set up an emergency shelter – To establish a temporary safe place for those in need

seek emergency shelter – To look for a protected location during a crisis

emergency shelter supplies – Food, water, blankets, and medical kits provided in such shelters

🔄 Synonyms

refuge (n.) – A place of safety from danger or trouble

safe haven (n.) – A secure location offering protection and peace

sanctuary (n.) – A sacred or safe place where people are protected from harm

🚫 Antonyms

danger zone (n.) – An area that is unsafe and poses immediate risk

exposed area (n.) – A location without any protection from natural elements or threats

hazard area (n.) – A site designated as high-risk due to potential disasters

🌱 Derivatives

shelter (v.) – To provide a safe place for someone or something

sheltered (adj.) – Protected from harsh conditions or danger

emergency (adj.) – Relating to an urgent situation requiring immediate action

📖 Cultural Story

After hurricanes or earthquakes, organizations like the Red Cross transform public buildings into emergency shelters. The term became standardized in disaster response manuals in the 20th century.