ASYLUM

noun Etymology: Middle English, from Latin, from Greek asylon, neuter of asylos inviolable, from a- + sylon right of seizure Date: 15th century an inviolable place of refuge and protection giving shelter to criminals and debtors ; sanctuary , a place of retreat and security ; shelter , 3. the protection or inviolability afforded by an ~ ; refuge , protection from arrest and extradition given especially to political refugees by a nation or by an embassy or other agency enjoying diplomatic immunity, an institution for the care of the destitute or sick and especially the insane