Real Dictionary

shelter
If a place or thing is sheltered by something, it is protected by that thing from wind and rain.
countable noun: A shelter is a building where homeless people can sleep and get food.
countable noun: A shelter is a small building or covered place which is made to protect people from bad weather or danger.
uncountable noun: If a place provides shelter, it provides you with a place to stay or live, especially when you need protection from bad weather or danger.
verb: If you shelter in a place, you stay there and are protected from bad weather or danger.

shelter in American English
something that covers or protects; protection, or place affording protection, as from the elements or danger
to find protection or refuge
to provide shelter or refuge for; protect
noun: something beneath, behind, or within which a person, animal, or thing is protected from storms, missiles, adverse conditions, etc.; refuge

shelter in British English
noun: something that provides cover or protection, as from weather or danger; place of refuge
verb: to provide with or protect by a shelter