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

Collectively, these moments of recognition—where employees acknowledge and celebrate each other’s contributions, milestones, and progress—generate a treasure trove of insights into performance, collaboration, and culture. —Eric Mosley, Forbes, 18 Dec. 2024

Its name derives from the original owners, Amelia and Dr. Robert Frost, and, for fans of modernist architecture, the home is a treasure trove of midcentury design history. —Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 11 Dec. 2024

Beyond the resort, the surrounding Gunnison Valley offers a treasure trove of backcountry adventures to satiate all types of outdoor lovers. —Jen Murphy, Outside Online, 10 Dec. 2024

But this toxic waste may also be a treasure trove of the rare earth elements needed to propel the world toward clean energy. —Andrew Torgan, CNN, 8 Dec. 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.