Meaning & Definition of word "Hoard"

Hoard

/hɔːrd/

noun:

  • 1. A collection of valuable things that are stored away.
    • Example: The archaeologists discovered a hoard of ancient coins buried beneath the ruins.
  • 2. An accumulation of something, especially when kept secret or hidden.
    • Example: His hoard of books filled every corner of his small apartment.

verb:

  • 1. To gather and store away something valuable, often in a hidden or secret place.
    • Example: During the pandemic, many people began to hoard essential supplies like toilet paper and disinfectants.
  • 2. To accumulate a large amount of something over time without using it.
    • Example: She tends to hoard old magazines, convinced she will read them someday.

Etymology

Middle English 'horde', from Old English 'hord', meaning 'treasure, a store, a stockpile'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

hoard away:

To store something away for future use.

hoard mentality:

The mindset of accumulating and not sharing resources.

Related Words

accumulate:

To gather or collect items over time.

stash:

A hidden store of valuable items.

cache:

A store of goods or valuables that is hidden or stored away.

Slang Meanings of hoard

Meaning: To keep a lot of something for oneself, often to the point of excess.

Example Sentence: He's always trying to hoard the good snacks at the party.

Meaning: To have a backup of something in case it runs out.

Example Sentence: I like to hoard extra batteries just in case my flashlight dies.