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. [ 1913 Webster ] The sick and weak the healing plant shall aid, From storms a shelter, and from heat a shade. Pope. [ 1913 Webster ] 2. One who protects; a guardian; a defender. [ 1913 Webster ] Thou [ God ] hast been a shelter for me. Ps. lxi. 3. [ 1913 Webster ] 3. The state of being covered and protected; protection; security. [ 1913 Webster ] Who into shelter takes their tender bloom. Young. [ 1913 Webster ] Shelter tent, a small tent made of pieces of cotton duck arranged to button together. In field service the soldiers carry the pieces. [ 1913 Webster ] Syn. -- Asylum; refuge; retreat; covert; sanctuary; protection; defense; security. [ 1913 Webster ] |