Shelter/ˈʃeltər/ Definition 1 of 4Pro Tip 1/3Types of Shelter Shelters can be natural or man-made structures, from forests to constructed safe houses. Caves served as natural shelters for early humans. Pro Tip 2/3Temporary Solution Shelters are often seen as a temporary refuge, not a permanent home. During the hike, they found a temporary shelter under a rock overhang. Pro Tip 3/3Urgent Protection The word 'shelter' conveys a sense of urgency and immediate protection. As the storm approached, they urgently sought shelter.