safe house

A safe house (also spelled safehouse) is a dwelling place or building whose unassuming appearance makes it an inconspicuous location where one can hide out, take shelter, or conduct clandestine activities. Historical usage It may also refer to: in the jargon of law enforcement and intelligence agencies, a secure location, suitable for hiding witnesses, agents or other persons perceived as being in danger a place where people may go to avoid prosecution of their activities by authorities. Osama bin Laden's compound in Abbottabad has been described as a "safe house". a place where spying undercover hitmen may conduct clandestine observations or meet other operatives surreptitiously a location where a trusted adult or family or charity organization provides a haven for victims of domestic abuse (see also: men and/or women's shelter or refuge) a home of a trusted person, family or organization where victims of war and/or persecution may take refuge, receive protection and/or live in secret a house whose sole purpose is to conduct illegal ventures. Criminals use these to conduct different aspects of their business, such as produce, sell, or store product. Right of asylum sanctuary in medieval law sanctuary in modern times Church asylum Typically, the significance of safe houses is kept secret from all but a limited number of people, for the safety of those hidden within them.