<p><strong>Noun</strong></p><ul><li>(especially formerly) an institution for the maintenance and care of the mentally ill, orphans, or other persons requiring specialized assistance.</li><li>an inviolable refuge, as formerly for criminals and debtors; sanctuary: He sought asylum in the church.</li><li>Synonyms: retreat, shelter, haven</li><li>International Law: a refuge granted an alien by a sovereign state on its own territory.</li><li>a temporary refuge granted political offenders, especially in a foreign embassy.</li><li>any secure retreat.</li></ul>