treasure trove
nounEtymology From Anglo-Norman tresor trové (“found treasure”), calque of Latin thesaurus inventus, where the past participle trové was interpreted in English as a noun. Perhaps related to trophy.
1
A hidden treasure, subsequently discovered.
- ' All these larger transactions have taken place in Harlem or Florida. Always the next man in the link was an unknown negro, in all cases a white-collar man, prosperous, educated, who said he guessed they were treasure-trove, Blackbeard's treasure.'1954, Ian Fleming, “Interview with M”, in Live and Let Die, London: Pan Books, published 1957, page 16:
2
A valuable discovery.
3
Law Usually Precious metal objects that were buried or concealed by an unknown owner.
4
Figuratively A place where many things of value can be found.
- His house is a treasure trove of weird socks.
- So while Hobson-Jobson is a veritable treasure trove of scholarly knowledge, unless it can be independently verified, that knowledge is best used with caution.2018, James Lambert, “Setting the Record Straight: An In-depth Examination of Hobson-Jobson”, in International Journal of Lexicography, volume 31, number 4, →DOI, page 502:
1 more example
- Council's tip shops in Acacia Ridge and Geebung are treasure troves for everyone from budding home stylists to outdoor enthusiasts.2021 February 1, Living in Brisbane, Brisbane, page 7:
- Synonyms
- hoard