from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Shelter \Shel"ter\, n. [Cf. OE. scheltrun, shiltroun,
schelltrome, scheldtrome, a guard, squadron, AS. scildtruma a
troop of men with shields; scild shield + truma a band of
men. See {Shield}, n.]
1. That which covers or defends from injury or annoyance; a
protection; a screen.
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The sick and weak the healing plant shall aid,
From storms a shelter, and from heat a shade.
--Pope.
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2. One who protects; a guardian; a defender.
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Thou [God] hast been a shelter for me. --Ps. lxi. 3.
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3. The state of being covered and protected; protection;
security.
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Who into shelter takes their tender bloom. --Young.
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{Shelter tent},a small tent made of pieces of cotton duck
arranged to button together. In field service the soldiers
carry the pieces.
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Syn: Asylum; refuge; retreat; covert; sanctuary; protection;
defense; security.
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