Which definition of asylum relates to protection for escapees?

• A. Protection, safety, or the right to stay, especially that given by a government to people who have escaped from war or political trouble in their own country
• B. An institution for the care of the mentally ill
• C. A form of travel visa
• D. A financial instrument

Answer: (A)

Asylum here means protection granted by a government to people who have fled danger in their home country, such as war or political persecution. This sense centers on safety and the right to stay in a new country, providing refuge for escapees. The other senses of the word refer to unrelated things—an institution for the mentally ill, a form of travel visa, or a financial instrument—so they don’t convey protection for people fleeing danger. So the definition that highlights protection and the right to stay given by a government best fits.