Refugee
/ˌrɛf.juˈdʒiː/noun
A person who has been forced to leave their country in order to escape war, persecution, or natural disaster.
Did you know?The term 'refugee' originated from the Latin word meaning 'to flee', highlighting the desperate search for safety that echoes through centuries of human struggle.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
refugium
“a place of safety or shelter, a retreat.”
Old French
Old French
refugié
“one who has sought asylum or shelter.”
14th Century
Middle English
refugee
“a person seeking refuge due to persecution or danger.”
Modern English
English
refugee
“a person who has fled their home for safety.”