treasure 1 of 2

Definition of treasurenext
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2
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

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
Books arranged by hue, a ceiling tile bears signatures of students from years past and small treasures hide in corners -- each one marking a moment of pride. Arkansas Online, 21 June 2026 Humanity collectively mourned one of its great cultural treasures. Andy J. Semotiuk, Forbes.com, 21 June 2026
Verb
It’s treasured for its buttery texture and rich flavor, which come from the fish’s high natural oil and omega-3 content. Sean Timberlake, Sacbee.com, 20 May 2026 Designer Jean Patou first thought to create this ethereal scent during the Great Depression, as a potential revitalization of his business by offering something that could make someone feel rare and treasured with just a spritz. Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 15 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for treasure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for treasure
Noun
  • Hanson has long tried to dismantle the crown jewel of Howard’s legacy—yet after Australia’s worst mass shooting since Port Arthur, her rhetoric and Howard’s converged.
    Oscar Schwartz, New Yorker, 29 June 2026
  • He is draped across a chair, jewels on his hand glistening, and fur rugs lining the floor.
    Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • On the New Jersey artist’s debut album, a steady stream of screwball ideas coalesce into unexpectedly existential laptop twee gems.
    Nick Ayres DeMasi, Pitchfork, 1 July 2026
  • The design features an array of glittery gems across the straps.
    Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 30 June 2026
Verb
  • All of the profits will be donated to strengthen Redress’ work in advancing emerging creatives through its network of alumni, who value sustainability and circularity.
    Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 22 June 2026
  • Even if Wells doesn’t turn things around offensively, the Yankees highly value his defense.
    Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 22 June 2026
Verb
  • It is stored in an inactive form in cells such as the liver, spleen, bone marrow, and immune system—acting as the body’s reserve bank, indicating how much iron is available for future use.
    Tatiana Dias, Vogue, 30 June 2026
  • That badge allowed former surfer Conan Hayes, who was acquainted with election-denier and MyPillow founder Mike Lindell, to enter the secure room where the machines were stored and take images of the voting machines and associated data.
    Joey Garrison, USA Today, 30 June 2026
Noun
  • As the World Cup round of 32 gets underway, Vaughn Dalzell and Drew Dinsick look at whom the odds favor among France, Argentina, Spain and England to take home the trophy.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 30 June 2026
  • The hotel is a trophy project, for sure, but one that’s been achieved with more than a little panache.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • Win prizes playing interactive games, network with artists and entrepreneurs and enjoy signature drinks and bar snacks available for purchase.
    Lesly Gregory, AJC.com, 1 July 2026
  • When the Allied powers prevailed in World War II, the United States took the ship as a war prize.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 1 July 2026
Verb
  • Batters love to hit in Sacramento The Dodgers had dominated the A’s in the previous two games, scoring nine runs in both for victories of 9-4 and 9-3, respectively.
    Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 2 July 2026
  • Brushed with honey mustard and topped with ham, Gruyère cheese, and béchamel sauce, guests will love these buttery mini sandwiches.
    Hallie Milstein, Southern Living, 1 July 2026
Verb
  • There’s a clear PVC pocket for stashing liquid items, and a separate toothbrush tab.
    Alison Syrett Cleary, InStyle, 30 June 2026
  • Chicagoans long have been creative in finding places to stash their cars.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Treasure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/treasure. Accessed 3 Jul. 2026.

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