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hoard

IPA

How to pronounce hoard (audio)

Dictionary definition of hoard

To accumulate and store a large quantity of something, often to the point of excess or obsession.
"She tends to hoard items she believes will be valuable in the future."

Detailed meaning of hoard

When someone hoards, they may collect and stockpile items such as food, money, or possessions, often with the intention of using them in the future or as a means of security. Hoarding can be a symptom of a mental health condition called hoarding disorder, which is characterized by persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value or usefulness. Hoarding can lead to a range of negative consequences, such as cluttered living spaces, health and safety hazards, and social isolation. Treatment for hoarding disorder may involve therapy, medication, or a combination of both, and can help individuals learn to manage their compulsive hoarding behaviors and improve their quality of life. Overall, hoarding is a complex and challenging issue that requires empathy, support, and understanding from loved ones and mental health professionals.

Example sentences of hoard

1. The collector loved to hoard rare coins and stamps.
2. During times of scarcity, people tend to hoard essential supplies.
3. The squirrel would hoard acorns in its nest for the winter.
4. She would hoard sentimental items, unable to let go of the memories attached to them.
5. The miser would hoard his money and never spend it on anything.
6. The survivalist would hoard food and water in preparation for a disaster.

History and etymology of hoard

The verb 'hoard' traces its origins back to the Old English word 'hord,' which referred to a treasure or store of valuables, particularly in the form of precious metals, coins, or other prized possessions. This Old English term can be linked to the Proto-Germanic word 'huzdaz,' which means 'treasure' or 'hoard.' Over time, the meaning of 'hoard' expanded to encompass the act of accumulating and storing a large quantity of something, often to excess or even to the point of obsession. This evolution in meaning reflects the notion of guarding and amassing valuables, whether they are material wealth or intangible resources, with a sense of protectiveness and possessiveness. The etymology of 'hoard' thus underscores the idea of stockpiling and safeguarding something considered valuable or significant.

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Further usage examples of hoard

1. The shopaholic couldn't resist the urge to hoard clothes and shoes.
2. Some individuals hoard newspapers and magazines, unable to throw them away.
3. The dragon would hoard gold and jewels in its cave.
4. The eccentric artist would hoard random objects for inspiration in their artwork.
5. The pack rat would hoard miscellaneous items, cluttering up their living space.
6. The bibliophile would hoard books, filling every available shelf in their home.
7. The collector would hoard vintage toys and action figures, preserving their childhood memories.
8. The prepper would hoard medical supplies and emergency equipment.
9. The obsessive-compulsive person would hoard excessive amounts of cleaning supplies.
10. The gardener would hoard seeds, ensuring a bountiful harvest each year.
11. The coupon enthusiast would hoard coupons, always on the lookout for a good deal.
12. The digital hoarder would hoard files and documents on their computer, reluctant to delete anything.
13. The artist would hoard art supplies, creating a colorful and chaotic studio.
14. The historian would hoard historical artifacts, preserving the past for future generations.

Synonyms

Quiz categories containing hoard

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cache,save,stash

eb68db_835f1634c029417b99f86e8ea27c3e85.mp3

stash, distribute, dispense, give

amass,collect,gather,retain,stockpile

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