Treasure trove is a compound term that means an invaluable collection of precious things. The term is spelled using the IPA /ˈtrɛʒər trəʊv/ where 'treasure' is pronounced as /ˈtrɛʒər/ and 'trove' is pronounced as /trəʊv/. The word 'treasure' originates from the Middle English 'tresor' while 'trove' comes from the Old French 'trover' meaning 'to find'. The word has a lot of historical significance, and it is commonly used in archaeology and history as it refers to a collection of hidden or undiscovered artifacts.
A treasure trove refers to a collection of valuable items, often including precious metals, gemstones, and other rare artifacts, that has been hidden or buried and discovered at a later time. The term can also be used metaphorically to describe any valuable or precious find.
In its literal sense, a treasure trove typically connotes a cache of valuable items that has been deliberately concealed or lost, often in ancient times or in adventurous tales. These hidden troves are associated with legends and stories of pirates, thieves, and treasure hunters, who left these treasures behind for various reasons, including robberies, wars, or simply to safeguard their wealth.
A treasure trove can include a wide range of objects, such as gold coins, silver jewelry, ancient pottery, antique sculptures, or even archaeological findings. These items are usually considered valuable due to their historical significance, rarity, craftsmanship, or monetary worth.
Metaphorically, a treasure trove can refer to any significant and special discovery or accumulation of something valuable, be it knowledge, talents, or attributes. It can describe an unexpected or untapped source of wealth or resources that is discovered through luck or perseverance.
Overall, the term "treasure trove" denotes the exciting uncovering of valuable items, whether in a literal or metaphorical sense. Such discoveries can heighten one's curiosity and sense of adventure and contribute to the allure of exploration and the fascination with the extraordinary.
• Any money, articles made of gold or silver, or the precious metals in any form, found in the earth or otherwise hidden, the owner of which is not known.
• See treasure.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "treasure trove" originates from Middle English, combining the words "treasure" and "trove".
The term "treasure" comes from the Old French word "tresor", which derives from the Latin word "thesaurus", meaning "treasury" or "storehouse".
The word "trove" comes from the Middle English word "trof", which means "store" or "collection". It ultimately comes from the Old English word "trēow", meaning "vessel" or "box".
When combined, "treasure trove" refers to a collection or store of valuable items or money that has been hidden or buried. It is commonly associated with discoveries of valuable artifacts, coins, or any valuable objects found hidden or forgotten.