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Sheltered Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sheltered

[ˈʃɛltəd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

feeling protected

Protected from difficulties or unpleasantness; in a safe or secure position.

Synonyms

protected, safe, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sheltered

Often implies being insulated from harsh conditions, but this is a duplicate entry.

  • She led a sheltered life
protected

Used when someone or something is kept safe from harm, damage, or negative influences. Often implies that active measures are being taken to ensure safety.

  • The soldiers protected the villagers from the attackers.
  • The endangered species is protected by law.
secure

Used when something is firmly fixed or guarded against threats. Often implies stability and the absence of risk, but can also refer to protection against theft or other forms of attack.

  • Make sure all the windows are secure before you leave.
  • He has a secure job with the government.
safe

Used when someone or something is free from danger or risk. It is a general term and can be applied in a variety of contexts.

  • The child felt safe in her mother's arms.
  • The building is safe to enter after the inspection.

Examples of usage

  • I had a sheltered childhood, never having to worry about where my next meal would come from.
  • The village is sheltered from the harsh winds by the mountains.
Context #2 | Verb

providing protection

Protect or shield from something harmful, especially bad weather.

Synonyms

cover, protect, shield.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
protect

Used when someone or something is kept safe from harm or danger.

  • Sunscreen can protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
  • It is important to protect your personal information online.
shield

Means to provide protection, typically from danger or something bad. It often implies a more active form of protection compared to 'shelter.'

  • He raised his arm to shield his eyes from the bright light.
  • Regulations were put in place to shield consumers from fraud.
cover

Refers to placing something over or around something else, often for protection or concealment. It can also mean to include or deal with a subject or topic.

  • He covered the pot with a lid to keep the heat in.
  • The insurance policy will cover the cost of the repairs.
  • The reporter will cover the election story.

Examples of usage

  • The porch sheltered us from the pouring rain.
  • The tree sheltered the birds from the strong winds.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Individuals who are sheltered might have limited exposure to challenges, which can affect their coping skills.
  • Research suggests that over-sheltering children can lead to anxiety or difficulty in handling adversity later in life.
  • Conversely, some shelter can provide a secure environment that fosters healthy emotional development.

Cultural Context

  • In literature, characters that are sheltered often face significant challenges when they step outside their comfort zones.
  • Many fairy tales feature 'sheltered' protagonists who grow by encountering the world outside their protected lives.
  • In various cultures, the concept of shelter extends beyond physical protection to emotional and social safety as well.

Environmental Science

  • Sheltered environments, like forests or caves, provide crucial habitats for many species, offering protection from predators and weather.
  • In conservation, creating sheltered areas can help endangered species thrive by reducing human interference.
  • The term also applies in gardening, where sheltered areas can help plants survive harsh conditions.

Architecture

  • Sheltered designs in architecture focus on providing protection against the elements, enhancing comfort and safety.
  • Roofs, awnings, and overhangs are examples of elements used to create sheltered spaces in buildings.
  • Sustainable architecture often includes features that create both shelter for people and wildlife.

Origin of 'sheltered'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sheltered' comes from the Old English 'scealdre,' meaning 'to shield or protect.'
  • It evolved in Middle English to describe being covered or defended from elements or dangers.
  • The verb form 'shelter' first appeared in texts around the 15th century, emphasizing safety.

The word 'sheltered' originated from Middle English 'sheltron' which meant a large group of armed men forming a barrier with their shields. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the idea of protection or being shielded from harm. The concept of providing shelter has always been essential for human survival, and the word continues to embody the sense of safety and security.

See also: shelter, sheltering, unsheltered.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,262 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.