shelter: Meaning and Definition of

shel•ter

1. something beneath, behind, or within which a person, animal, or thing is protected from storms, missiles, adverse conditions, etc.; refuge.
2. the protection or refuge afforded by such a thing: He took shelter in a nearby barn.
3. protection from blame, incrimination, etc.
4. a dwelling place or home considered as a refuge from the elements: Everyone's basic needs are food, clothing, and shelter.
5. a building serving as a temporary refuge or residence for homeless persons, abandoned animals, etc.
6. See

1. to be a shelter for; afford shelter to: The old barn sheltered him from the rain.
2. to provide with a shelter; place under cover.
3. to protect, as by shelter; take under one's protection: Parents should not try to shelter their children from normal childhood disappointments.
4. to invest (money) in a tax shelter.

1. to take shelter; find a refuge: He sheltered in a barn.
2. to invest money in a tax shelter.