sheltered
UK: ˈʃeltəd | US: ˈʃeltərd
adj. protected from danger, hardship, or unpleasant influences
adj. (of a place) providing a safe or comfortable environment
v. past tense and past participle of "shelter" (to provide protection or refuge)
The word "sheltered" derives from the Middle English "sheltron," meaning a protective formation or shield, which itself comes from Old English "scieldtruma" (shield + troop). Over time, "shelter" evolved to mean a place of refuge or protection. The suffix "-ed" marks it as a past participle, indicating a state of being protected or the act of providing protection. The modern sense reflects both physical safety and metaphorical insulation from harsh realities.
The children grew up in a sheltered environment, unaware of life's hardships.
During the storm, we sheltered under a large oak tree.
The sheltered bay provided a safe harbor for the fishing boats.
Her sheltered upbringing left her unprepared for the challenges of city life.
The government sheltered refugees fleeing the war-torn region.