air-raid shelter; cover for bad things
Meanings
2 senses · 6 examplesnoun
air-raid shelter; bomb shelter
Refers to a physical structure, usually underground or cave-like, used for protection during aerial bombardments. Common in wartime contexts.
During the war, citizens would take shelter in the air-raid shelters as soon as they heard the siren.
This village dug a very large air-raid shelter at the foot of the mountain.
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These supplies are stored safely in the bomb shelter.
noun
cover; safe haven; pretext
Metaphorical usage. Refers to any person, place, system, or ideology that provides protection or justification for immoral, illegal, or harmful people or ideas. Often used in political or social criticism.
This corrupt official uses this company as a safe haven for his illicit activities.
Outdated laws have become a cover for these criminals.
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Under the banner of free speech, he is actually seeking a pretext for extremist ideologies.