Asylum (noun)

1. A place of safety or refuge, especially for someone fleeing persecution.
2. An institution providing protection and support for people with mental or physical disabilities.

Origin:

Late middle english: via old french from latin asylum, from greek asulon "place of refuge", from a- "without" + sulon "right of seizure".

Examples:

1. The refugees were seeking asylum in the country.
2. The asylum was a safe haven for the persecuted.
3. He was granted asylum by the government.
4. The asylum was a large building with high walls.
5. The asylum provided care for people with mental health issues.