Asylum

Definition

Asylum is a term that refers to protection granted by a nation to refugees fleeing persecution or danger, or a place of sanctuary offering shelter to those in need. Historically, it also refers to an institution for the care of people with mental illnesses.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈsaɪləm/
• Respelling: uh-SY-luhm

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈsaɪləm/
• Respelling: uh-SY-luhm

The pronunciation of "asylum" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "asylum" originates from the Greek "asylon," meaning "refuge" or "sanctuary," derived from "a-" (without) and "sylon" (right of seizure). It entered Latin as "asylum" and later Middle English, where it retained its meaning of a place offering protection or refuge.

Derivatives

• Asylee (noun)
• Asylum seeker (noun)
• Asylum-like (adjective)
• Asylumed (verb, rare)
• Asylums (noun, plural)

Synonyms

• Sanctuary
• Refuge
• Shelter

Antonyms

• Persecution
• Danger
• Threat

Usage

The term "asylum" is commonly used in political, legal, and social contexts. In international law, asylum refers to the protection granted to individuals fleeing persecution, often for reasons of race, religion, nationality, or political opinion. Individuals seeking asylum are often referred to as "asylum seekers." In historical contexts, the term also referred to mental health institutions or facilities offering refuge to vulnerable populations. Today, asylum is widely associated with refugee status and human rights.

Related Terms

• Refugee: A person forced to leave their country to escape war, persecution, or disaster.
• Protection: The act of keeping someone or something safe from harm.
• Exile: The state of being barred from one's native country.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• Protection granted by a nation to someone fleeing danger or persecution: Refers to a legal or humanitarian status given to refugees for safety.
  • Example: "The government granted asylum to the political dissident."
• A place of sanctuary or safety: Describes a location that offers protection or refuge to those in need.
  • Example: "The church provided asylum to the refugees."
• A facility for the care of people with mental illnesses (historical): Previously used to refer to mental health institutions.
  • Example: "The old asylum was closed due to outdated practices."