treasure trove

noun

1

: treasure that anyone finds

specifically : gold or silver in the form of money, plate, or bullion which is found hidden and whose ownership is not known

2

: a valuable discovery, resource, or collection

Synonyms

• argosy
• cornucopia
• gold mine
• mine
• mother lode
• wellspring

Examples of treasure trove in a Sentence

Divers found a treasure trove of gold and silver in the wreckage of a ship that sank hundreds of years ago.

the ancient city, having been almost perfectly preserved under volcanic ash for nearly 2,000 years, is proving to be a treasure trove of archaeological information

Recent Examples on the Web

It's known for beaches and surfing spots, along with its reputation as a treasure trove of natural wonders and unique wildlife. —Roger Sands, Forbes, 1 Oct. 2024

The big picture: The 2024 presidential election has been a treasure trove of campaign merchandise from both sides. —Kelly Tyko, Axios, 26 Sep. 2024

Ozzy Dion Liv Axl Cassius Jethro Aston Aire Zuma Ezra Zosia Futuristic Baby Names Inspired by Science-Fiction Science-fiction entertainment is a treasure trove of futuristic-sounding baby names. —Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 23 Sep. 2024

Then, of course, having the treasure trove of work at the museum was like being a kid in a candy store. —Sean Clancy, arkansasonline.com, 8 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Anglo-French tresor trové, literally, found treasure

First Known Use

1523, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

treasure trove

noun

-ˌtrōv

1

: treasure of unknown ownership found buried or hidden

2

: a valuable discovery

Legal Definition

treasure trove

noun

-ˈtrōv

: treasure that anyone finds

specifically : gold or silver in the form of money, plate, or bullion that is found hidden and whose ownership is not known

Note: State law determines who is entitled to a treasure trove.