sanctuary crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "sanctuary" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "sanctuary crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
HAVEN: A place of safety or refuge. Often used in crosswords for 'sanctuary' when a shorter word is needed.
6 Letters
REFUGE: A state of being safe or sheltered from pursuit, danger, or difficulty. A direct synonym for 'sanctuary'.
ASYLUM: The protection granted by a state to someone who has left their native country as a political refugee. Also a place of retreat, sometimes a mental institution.
SHRINE: A place regarded as holy because of its association with a divinity or a sacred person or relic, typically marked by a building or other construction. Can be a spiritual sanctuary.
TEMPLE: A building devoted to the worship, or regarded as the dwelling place, of a god or gods or other objects of religious reverence. A sacred sanctuary.
7 Letters
RETREAT: A place of refuge, seclusion, or privacy. Often implies withdrawing to a quiet, safe place.
SHELTER: A place providing temporary protection from bad weather or danger. A common and broad term for a sanctuary.
9 Letters
SAFEHAVEN: A place of refuge or security. A compound word that clearly indicates a sanctuary.
More About "sanctuary crossword clue"
The term "sanctuary" is a rich and versatile word, making it a favorite for crossword constructors. It can evoke images of sacred spaces, such as churches, temples, or shrines, where one finds spiritual solace. In a more secular sense, it can refer to a place of physical safety, like a refuge for animals or a haven for people fleeing danger. This dual nature allows for a wide range of synonyms to fit the clue in various puzzles.
When you encounter "sanctuary" in a crossword, consider the overall theme of the puzzle. Is it leaning towards a religious theme? Then words like SHRINE or TEMPLE might be appropriate. Is it a general knowledge puzzle? Then more common synonyms like REFUGE or HAVEN could be the solution. Sometimes, constructors might use a more obscure synonym, so having a broad vocabulary related to protection and sacredness is a definite advantage.
Remember that crosswords often play on subtleties of meaning. A 'sanctuary' could be a peaceful room in your home, a protected wildlife area, or even a legal concept like diplomatic asylum. By understanding the multifaceted meanings of the word, you increase your chances of finding the exact answer the puzzle demands.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always count the empty boxes in the grid before looking for answers. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly, especially for clues like "sanctuary" that have many synonyms.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These crucial clues will often confirm or rule out potential "sanctuary" answers, ensuring you pick the correct synonym.
- Consider the Puzzle's Theme: Some crosswords have a theme that might hint at a specific type of "sanctuary" (e.g., if the puzzle is about religion, a spiritual sanctuary is more likely). Pay attention to other clues and answers for subtle hints.
- Think Broadly & Narrowly: Brainstorm both general synonyms (like REFUGE) and more specific ones (like SHRINE or ASYLUM) to cover all bases for the "sanctuary" clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'sanctuary' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'sanctuary' typically refers to a place of safety, refuge, or spiritual retreat. Answers can range from direct synonyms like REFUGE or ASYLUM to more specific types of sanctuaries like SHRINE or TEMPLE.
How do I determine the correct length for 'sanctuary' answers?
The length of the answer is crucial in crosswords. Always count the available boxes in the grid for the 'sanctuary' clue. Then, look for synonyms that match that exact letter count. For example, HAVEN is 5 letters, REFUGE is 6 letters, and SAFEHAVEN is 9 letters.
Are there spiritual or religious answers for 'sanctuary'?
Yes, 'sanctuary' often has spiritual connotations. Common answers in this vein include SHRINE, TEMPLE, or even ALTAR (though ALTAR is often a more specific part of a sanctuary). The context of other clues in the puzzle might hint at a religious answer.