treasure
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /trˈɛʒə/
US
- /ˈtrɛʒər/
Description
- valuable possessions
- something cherished
- wealth
- to prize highly
- hidden riches
It is not just gold in a pirate chest. It can mean money, jewels, or other valuable things, but it can also mean anything a person cares about deeply. A grandmother's handwritten recipe book can be as special as a box full of diamonds. When people talk about lost treasure, they often mean more than the objects themselves; they also mean the story, mystery, and history around them. You can also "treasure" a friendship, a memory, or a quiet moment with people you love. The word comes from Old French tresor, which meant stored wealth.
The word "treasure" most commonly brings to mind riches—gold, silver, jewels, and other valuable possessions accumulated over time. Think of pirates burying treasure chests on remote islands or explorers discovering lost cities filled with ancient treasures. But the true meaning of treasure extends far beyond monetary value.
Treasure can be anything held dear; something cherished not for its price tag, but for its sentimental worth. A childhood toy, a photograph capturing a special moment, or a handwritten letter from a loved one—these are all examples of personal treasures. We often "treasure" experiences too: a breathtaking sunset, a meaningful conversation, or a shared laugh with friends.
The verb "to treasure" means to hold something in high esteem and protect it carefully. For example, "She treasured the memories of her childhood." It implies a deep emotional connection and a sense of gratitude for what is valued.
The word is also often used in stories, history, and adventure because it suggests something hidden, rare, or worth searching for. Today, we still use it for wealth, but just as often we use it for the things and moments that feel deeply important to us. So look beyond the gold and jewels; what you truly treasure might surprise you!
Examples
- 1
Museum valuables
The museum keeps its most valuable treasures in a climate-controlled room.
- 2
Personal value
For her, an hour of quiet in the morning is a real treasure.
- 3
Family memories
The old photo album is one of his family’s greatest treasures.
- 4
Rich collection
Fans were excited when the archive released a treasure trove of old interviews.
Phrase
treasure trove
a large collection of valuable or interesting things
- 5
Keepsakes
I still treasure the letters my grandmother wrote to me.
- 6
Family time
After moving abroad, he learned to treasure weekends with his parents.
- 7
Special opportunity
She knows this chance won’t come again, so she treasures every minute of it.
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- treasurenounverb
Forms
- treasurespluralnounverb
- treasuredpast tenseverbnoun
- treasuring-ing formverbnoun