haven

Everyday

1. A haven is a safe, peaceful place where people or animals can rest or be protected. tree →
2. (old use) A harbour where ships can shelter. tree →
3. A tax haven is a country where people put money to pay less tax (money). tree →

In the lessons

In stories and in science, a nature reserve is a haven for wildlife; a library can be a haven of quiet. In everyday life parents want home to be a safe haven. Place names like Newhaven or New Haven come from the harbour meaning. Phrases: «safe haven», «a haven of peace», «a haven for wildlife», «tax haven».

Examples

• The garden pond is a haven for frogs. tree →
• Our treehouse is a haven from my noisy brothers. tree →
• The ship found a haven from the storm. tree →
• The library is a quiet haven at lunchtime. tree →
• The island is a haven for seabirds. tree →
• Some rich people keep money in tax havens. tree →
• Home should be a safe haven for every child. tree →

Note

Countable. Do not confuse with «heaven» (the sky, or where God is, Christians believe). Pronunciation: HAY-ven. Similar: refuge, shelter, sanctuary.

In Jewish tradition

A harbor where sailors are safe after a storm.

Interpretation. Psalm 107 is read as thanks for being rescued, and Jewish tradition has a blessing of thanks for those saved from danger, including sea travelers.

Examples

• Then were they glad because they were quiet, and He led them unto their desired haven. (Writings PSA.107.30, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Countable. Do not confuse with «heaven» (the sky, or where God is, Christians believe). Pronunciation: HAY-ven. Similar: refuge, shelter, sanctuary.