Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Shelter \Shel"ter\, n. [Cf. OE. scheltrun, shiltroun,
   schelltrome, scheldtrome, a guard, squadron, AS. scildtruma a
   troop of men with shields; scild shield + truma a band of
   men. See {Shield}, n.]
   1. That which covers or defends from injury or annoyance; a
      protection; a screen.

            The sick and weak the healing plant shall aid, From
            storms a shelter, and from heat a shade. --Pope.

   2. One who protects; a guardian; a defender.

            Thou [God] hast been a shelter for me. --Ps. lxi. 3.

   3. The state of being covered and protected; protection;
      security.

            Who into shelter takes their tender bloom. --Young.

   {Shelter tent},a small tent made of pieces of cotton duck
      arranged to button together. In field service the soldiers
      carry the pieces.

   Syn: Asylum; refuge; retreat; covert; sanctuary; protection;
        defense; security.

Source : WordNet®

shelter tent
     n : a wedge-shaped tent; usually without a floor or windows
         [syn: {pup tent}]