1
as in shrine
a place that is considered sacred (as within a religion) the city of Jerusalem is an important sanctum for Christians, Jews, and Muslims alike

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sanctum In a world without God, the homies are a sanctum. 5. Stephen Kearse, Vulture, 4 Feb. 2025 But the maestro was powerless to stifle a burst of gratitude and relief, a communal exhalation, prompted by music, that could only take place in the sanctum of a concert hall. Justin Davidson, Curbed, 16 Oct. 2024 And then there were the Satanists — who welcomed him into their sanctum without judgment. Alex Bhattacharji, Rolling Stone, 4 Aug. 2024 Tehran is taking its time to reveal how, yet again, its innermost sanctum was violated by Israel. Nick Paton Walsh, CNN, 31 July 2024 See All Example Sentences for sanctum
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sanctum
Noun
  • The importance of shrines and temples to the cultural life of Tokyo can’t be overstated.
    Jessica Kozuka, Travel + Leisure, 6 July 2025
  • On Friday afternoon, the site had been transformed into a temporary shrine.
    Jack Lang, New York Times, 6 July 2025
Noun
  • It’s designed to be a small refuge, a safe place with no strings attached in hopes of gaining trust and offering options.
    Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 July 2025
  • Before the 1950s, the places where Houston’s fledgling LGBTQ+ community found refuge were scattered.
    Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 7 July 2025
Noun
  • Known for its commitment to wellness, sustainability and experiential luxury, the Six Senses brand creates immersive sanctuaries that connect guests to nature, community and self.
    Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
  • Other pink binders are located at the entrance to the sanctuary itself as well as in the fellowship hall, all places anyone is welcome to enter St. Andrew's Lutheran Church, in west Los Angeles.
    Jason DeRose, NPR, 13 July 2025
Noun
  • If finding indoor shelter is not an option: Avoid open fields, hill peaks, or ridge tops.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 9 July 2025
  • If the sky becomes menacing and thunder becomes audible, seek out a safe place to seek shelter.
    STAR-TELEGRAM WEATHER BOT Updated July 8, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 July 2025
Noun
  • That pattern—the burst of change followed by a retreat to the familiar—troubled me.
    Jeroen Tas, Time, 10 July 2025
  • As brands retreat from Pride, this company stepped up for visibility in rural towns.
    Nicole Fallert, USA Today, 10 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sanctum.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sanctum. Accessed 22 Jul. 2025.

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