# hoard

/ˈhɔɹd/ (US) · /hˈɔːd/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/hoard
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a large collection of valuable things that someone has hidden or kept for the future.

For teachers: a hidden fund or supply of valuables, often stored away for preservation or future use. In archaeological contexts, refers specifically to a group of objects purposefully buried in the ground.

## Examples

- The farmer discovered a hoard of gold coins in his field.
- Archaeologists believe the hoard was buried during a time of war to protect the family's wealth from invaders.
- The discovery of the Viking hoard provided researchers with unprecedented insights into the trade routes and silver currency used across Northern Europe during the ninth century.

## Pitfalls

- Not "a horde of gold" but "a hoard of gold" — Learners often confuse 'hoard' (a hidden collection) with 'horde' (a large group of people).

## Usage notes

- Often followed by 'of' to specify the contents, such as 'a hoard of treasure' or 'a hoard of supplies'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.