# valuables

/ˈvæɫjəbəɫz/ (US) · /vˈæljuːəbəlz/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/valuables
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

small things you own that are worth a lot of money, like jewelry, watches, or expensive electronics.

For teachers: personal items of significant financial or sentimental worth. Usually refers to portable objects such as jewelry, cash, or small electronics.

## Examples

- Please keep your valuables in the hotel safe.
- The sign at the gym entrance reminds members not to leave valuables in their lockers overnight.
- While the insurance policy covers the structure of the home, high-value items like antiques and other valuables require a separate appraisal and additional coverage.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He lost a valuable in the park." but "He lost a valuable item in the park." — The word 'valuables' is a plural-only noun; the singular 'valuable' is an adjective and cannot be used as a count noun for a single object.

## Usage notes

- Takes plural verb agreement; almost exclusively used in the plural form when referring to a collection of expensive items.

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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.