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Definition of treasurenext
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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

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

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
Cole loves doing puzzles, which his mother, seen holding Cole's hand at left, treasures watching him still have the ability to do. Elizabeth Chuck, NBC news, 1 Apr. 2026 Rumor has it that Blackbeard's treasure is still buried somewhere on the island. Valerie Fraser Luesse, Southern Living, 1 Apr. 2026
Verb
My daughters just flew their kites from last year around our yard yesterday on a blustery March day, and the giggles were a sound and sight to treasure. Chaunie Brusie, Parents, 13 Mar. 2026 Among the many things to treasure about living in North Texas are the beautiful parks and trails residents can visit throughout the year. Dallas Morning News, 1 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for treasure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for treasure
Noun
  • Those jewels are still missing.
    Nick Mafi, Architectural Digest, 2 Apr. 2026
  • After watching the catch of the day come in, head to the neighboring Umi no Ichi food and shopping hall to grab a bowl of sea-to-table kaisendon—slices of sashimi, jewel-like roe, and other oceanic delights, served atop a bed of rice.
    Zoe Baillargeon, Travel + Leisure, 1 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The space reminded me of Soma Winery, another South Main gem.
    Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Mar. 2026
  • Since the Coco days, and well through Lagerfeld, Chanel has been known for piling on the gems and jewels.
    Christina Holevas, Vogue, 26 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • It is distributed as five separate bonus bets, each valued at 20% of your initial eligible wager.
    Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Mar. 2026
  • The ripple fold is a strong option for homeowners who value both form and function, offering smooth operation along a track system.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 30 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The red mesh sack, of the kind typically used to store oranges or onions, is stamped with her name, immigration number and date of deportation.
    Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 31 Mar. 2026
  • After years of sustained demand, the snack returned to store shelves in 2020.
    Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • For the record, Hamm has never been nominated for an Oscar, but his trophy shelf is far from bare.
    Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 1 Apr. 2026
  • Hamm has never been nominated for an Oscar himself, but his trophy case is far from empty.
    Ryan Brennan April 1, Miami Herald, 1 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • In the event of multiple jackpot winners, the jackpot prize will be shared.
    Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 28 Mar. 2026
  • With more than 1,000 change-seekers in the audience, a powerhouse panel of judges and nearly $300,000 in prize funding on the line, the energy in the room is electric.
    Dallas Morning News, Dallas Morning News, 27 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Baker would probably love People’s, a new referral-only cocktail lounge in the West Village.
    Rachel Syme, New Yorker, 27 Mar. 2026
  • Frank and his wife loved the concert.
    Letters to the Editor, Hartford Courant, 27 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Kahnle, despite his status as a 12-year MLB veteran, can be stashed in Triple-A to start the season.
    Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 22 Mar. 2026
  • Afternoon and early-evening sessions, once thought safe, were infiltrated by those stashing weapons.
    Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 19 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Treasure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/treasure. Accessed 4 Apr. 2026.

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