■ noun ( plural sanctuaries )
1》 a place of refuge or safety.
↘immunity from arrest.
2》 a nature reserve.
↘a place where injured or unwanted animals are cared for.
3》 a holy place.
↘the innermost recess or holiest part of a temple.
↘the part of the chancel of a church containing the high altar.
Origin
ME (orig. 'a sacred place where a fugitive was immune from arrest'): from OFr. sanctuaire , from L. sanctuarium , from sanctus 'holy'.