TREASURE Synonyms: 193 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'treasure' different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of treasure are appreciate , cherish , prize , and value . While all these words mean "to hold in high estimation," treasure emphasizes jealously safeguarding something considered precious. // a treasured memento

Q: When is 'appreciate' a more appropriate choice than 'treasure'?

The words appreciate and treasure are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, appreciate often connotes sufficient understanding to enjoy or admire a thing's excellence. // appreciates fine wine

Q: In what contexts can 'cherish' take the place of 'treasure'?

The words cherish and treasure can be used in similar contexts, but cherish implies a special love and care for something. // cherishes her children above all

Q: When is it sensible to use 'prize' instead of 'treasure'?

The meanings of prize and treasure largely overlap; however, prize implies taking a deep pride in something one possesses. // Americans prize their freedom

Q: When could 'value' be used to replace 'treasure'?

While in some cases nearly identical to treasure , value implies rating a thing highly for its intrinsic worth. // values our friendship

treasure 1 of 2

noun

ˈtre-zhər

Definition of treasure next

as in jewel

an asset that brings praise or renown ancient archaeological treasures that today would never be allowed out of the country of origin

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in gem

someone or something unusually desirable in thanking them for their contributions, the mayor referred to the volunteers at the homeless shelter as the city's greatest treasures

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

lemon
loser

treasure

2 of 2

verb

as in to value

to hold dear I'll always treasure the time my friend and I spent together this past summer

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to store

to put (something of future use or value) in a safe or secret place a trove of fine wines that he had lovingly treasured over the years

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word treasure different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of treasure are appreciate, cherish, prize, and value. While all these words mean "to hold in high estimation," treasure emphasizes jealously safeguarding something considered precious.

a treasured memento

When is appreciate a more appropriate choice than treasure?

The words appreciate and treasure are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, appreciate often connotes sufficient understanding to enjoy or admire a thing's excellence.

appreciates fine wine

In what contexts can cherish take the place of treasure?

The words cherish and treasure can be used in similar contexts, but cherish implies a special love and care for something.

cherishes her children above all

When is it sensible to use prize instead of treasure?

The meanings of prize and treasure largely overlap; however, prize implies taking a deep pride in something one possesses.

Americans prize their freedom

When could value be used to replace treasure?

While in some cases nearly identical to treasure, value implies rating a thing highly for its intrinsic worth.

values our friendship

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of treasure

Noun

Our town is a treasure, not just the historic neighborhoods and bustling downtown but most importantly, a welcoming community of engaged residents, along with our excellent schools, all nested in beautiful hillsides, surrounded by plenty of open spaces. —

Matthew Hudes, The Mercury News, 19 Jan. 2025 Shop rare markdowns on Ugg boots, a Coach bag, Sam Edelman ballet flats, and other treasures for up to 47 percent off. —

Clara McMahon, People.com, 18 Jan. 2025

Verb

These new traditions are just as meaningful, creating fond memories of holidays your kids will treasure for years to come. —

Christin Perry, Parents, 11 Dec. 2024 Notable celebrities like John Mellencamp, Sandra Bullock, and writer Mary Kay Andrews treasured its quiet charm and slow pace and purchased properties. —

Judy Garrison, Southern Living, 26 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for treasure

Recent Examples of Synonyms for treasure

Noun

This Mediterranean jewel—shaped by ancient mythology and the birthplace of democracy—is counted among the top destinations to visit in the world for countless reasons, from its complex history and distinct culture to its natural beauty and traditional fresh cuisine.

— Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 28 Jan. 2025
Now, a Monday memo from the NIH’s acting director has provided some clarity amidst the uncertainty: The NIH, the crown jewel of American scientific research, would continue to perform its primary functions, including clinical trials and life-saving medical research.

— Amy Feldman, Forbes, 27 Jan. 2025