/euh suy"leuhm/ , n.
1. (esp. formerly) an institution for the maintenance and care of the mentally ill, orphans, or other persons requiring specialized assistance.
2. an inviolable refuge, as formerly for criminals and debtors; sanctuary: He sought asylum in the church.
3. Internat. Law.
a. a refuge granted an alien by a sovereign state on its own territory.
b. a temporary refuge granted political offenders, esp. in a foreign embassy.
4. any secure retreat.
[ 1400-50; late ME; ásylon sanctuary, equiv. to a- A- 6 + sylon right of seizure ]
Syn. 2. haven, shelter, retreat.