treasure 1 of 2

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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

treasure

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verb

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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
Ukraine holds 5 percent of the world's rare earth reserves and the largest titanium deposits in Europe, which accounted for about a third of its exports before the war (now some of this treasure is in the hands of the Russians, complicating matters). Ross Rosenfeld, Newsweek, 26 Feb. 2025 However, the National Park Service topped the list of government agencies seen favorably by U.S. adults, according to a Pew Research study last July, and national parks are widely considered to be among America’s greatest treasures. Eve Chen, USA TODAY, 26 Feb. 2025
Verb
After treasuring it for a year, the family donated the bear to the Smithsonian in 1964. Sarah Holzmann, Smithsonian Magazine, 15 Feb. 2025 This man should treasure the love that his partner is offering them. Harriette Cole, The Mercury News, 13 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for treasure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for treasure
Noun
  • The future of this country’s greatest universities—long the jewels of the American century—is in question, and the stakes are high.
    Nathan Heller, The New Yorker, 4 Mar. 2025
  • In contrast with her classic Dior gown and archival Tiffany & Co. jewels, the Anora star opted for a chic if imperfect updo with loose strands to keep the look from leaning too hard into an Old Hollywood aesthetic.
    Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 3 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • This season not only revisits the familiar paths of America’s hidden gems and urban adventures but also spotlights sustainable travel, culinary-centric itineraries and culturally rich experiences.
    Laura Begley Bloom, Forbes, 25 Feb. 2025
  • Amidst the sprawling landscape of Los Medanos College, a 2-acre gem thrives with life, rooted in its mission to preserve California’s native plants and provide a sanctuary for students.
    Hema Sivanandam, The Mercury News, 24 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Stripe last week announced a tender offer that valued the company at $91.5 billion, helping its valuation rebound close to its peak of $95 billion.
    Kate Rooney, CNBC, 3 Mar. 2025
  • In order to make improvements, the city has to acquire the land and purchase properties — valued at nearly $22 million total — demolish them and make way for the project.
    Taylor O’Connor, Kansas City Star, 3 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Let your schedule and meal plan be your guide to select the best way to store radishes.
    Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Feb. 2025
  • At one point, 36 pounds of gold, purchased as an investment, was being stored on the grounds of Skyview Memorial.
    Richard Halstead, The Mercury News, 28 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Indeed, the Green Wave have achieved that goal and now have a chance to add a state championship trophy to go with the one the program won in the 1984-85 season.
    Paul Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 4 Mar. 2025
  • Not only did Smart win her third consecutive best actress in a comedy trophy for her work on the show, the series topped heavy competition (i.e. The Bear) to win top comedy.
    Mikey O'Connell, The Hollywood Reporter, 4 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Bong was just the second director of Asian descent to win the prize (Ang Lee had won twice).
    Scott Feinberg, The Hollywood Reporter, 27 Feb. 2025
  • The Brutalist could steal the prize, though, since films about the craft that’s being honored sometimes have an advantage.
    Nate Jones, Vulture, 27 Feb. 2025
Verb
  • Chard noted that in Hollywood, everyone loves a good comeback story.
    Stephanie Nolasco, Fox News, 3 Mar. 2025
  • Scorsese sent that joke video after reading the script and loving the idea.
    Michael Schneider, Variety, 3 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The serum stick is great for travel or stashing in your purse.
    Celia Shatzman, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2025
  • Take pictures of your screen, emails, or documents using your own device and stash them away in a safe location.
    Selina Wang, ABC News, 23 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Treasure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/treasure. Accessed 8 Mar. 2025.

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