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
There, a hidden treasure awaited: Velas Sajvin, a sculptural candle workshop founded by three sisters. Christine Chitnis, Vogue, 28 May 2025 Fearful Lina scours her village for clay pots, holding treasures but trapping ghosts. John Hopewell, Variety, 27 May 2025
Verb
That daily visit earns Wendy fresh milk and cheese, while Anita’s chickens occasionally provide eggs — tiny, but treasured. Ashley Vega, People.com, 22 May 2025 The group won the 2024 Mercury Prize with debut album This Could Be Texas, and proved how the U.K.’s grassroots scene is continually producing stellar acts, and why it must be protected and treasured. Thomas Smith, Billboard, 19 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for treasure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for treasure
Noun
  • This past weekend featured the crown jewel of the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) annual slate, the 2025 Zimmer Biomet APP New York City Open.
    Todd Boss, Forbes.com, 28 May 2025
  • The jewel of the home, a heated pool for swimming laps in the mornings, is located at the center of the inner courtyard, while the rooftop terrace offers an accommodating space for dining and lounging while taking in the city views.
    Shannon Sharpe, Architectural Digest, 28 May 2025
Noun
  • Globally recognized as one of the most important global spirits competitions, the IWSC has been uncovering gems for over 50 years.
    Hudson Lindenberger, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025
  • Here are The Athletic’s pick of Wirtz alternatives, from his fellow high-fee buys to hidden gems.
    Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 2 June 2025
Verb
  • Unlike stocks, which can be valued on the basis of tangible components such a company’s goods and services, bitcoin is considered a store of value, and its price is driven by what others are willing to pay for it.
    Jeanne Sahadi, CNN Money, 7 June 2025
  • In 2015, Northeast Boise homes were valued at less than half of that, right around $300,000.
    Carolyn Komatsoulis, Idaho Statesman, 7 June 2025
Verb
  • Files are encrypted both during transfer and while stored, and Koofr does not track your usage or behavior, which helps keep your data private.
    StackCommerce Team, PC Magazine, 5 June 2025
  • Researchers say that the total economic value of oceans needs to include the direct use of oceans like fishing and tourism as well as indirect functions like storing carbon and protecting biodiversity that keeps the planet in balance.
    Justin Worland, Time, 5 June 2025
Noun
  • Hundreds of thousands of people had descended on the parade route to see the Liverpool team and its staff travel through the city center on an open-top bus with the Premier League trophy.
    Christopher Cann, USA Today, 28 May 2025
  • This was underlined after the FA Cup semi-final, a day when Villa let a golden opportunity to rubber-stamp Emery’s era with a trophy pass by.
    Jacob Tanswell, New York Times, 28 May 2025
Noun
  • Engler had won the game’s top prize of $250,000, beating odds of 1 in 157,050.
    Mike Stunson, Kansas City Star, 3 June 2025
  • Season 7 of the beloved Peacock dating show kicks off on June 3, introducing a new group of Islanders looking for love in the villa and taking a shot at the $100,000 cash prize.
    Jordana Comiter, People.com, 3 June 2025
Verb
  • The teen would love a family that shows up to cheer him on at all his events.
    The Star, Kansas City Star, 7 June 2025
  • Everyone who tried this recipe loved the balance of the creamy ice cream, juicy strawberries, and slightly bitter wine sauce.
    Sarah Martens, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 June 2025
Verb
  • For a space to stash board games, blankets, and more, grab the Kelly Clarkson Home Emily Rattan Accent Cabinet.
    Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 31 May 2025
  • Always stash a pack of wipes as many public bathrooms don’t have toilet paper.
    Isis Briones, Travel + Leisure, 30 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Treasure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/treasure. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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