Definition of the word treasure trove

The term "treasure trove" initially appeared in Middle English as "tresoriwele" during the medieval period. The phrase is a combination of two Old English words: "tresor," which means a place where wealth is stored, and "wael," which refers to movable property, especially valuable ones. The earliest recorded use of "treasure trove" can be traced back to the 14th century, where it was used to refer to a hidden or abandoned hoard of valuable items. Later on, the meaning of the term evolved to include not just hidden treasures but also lost or forgotten ones that were then unearthed or discovered. In Old English, "tresoriwele" was often associated with the term "gafol," which meant a tribute or a tax that lords demanded from their subjects. "Tresoriwele" also had legal connotations, as it denoted an illegally concealed treasure that belonged to the state, and its discovery led to its confiscation. Today, "treasure trove" is widely used to describe a collection of valuable items, particularly archaeological finds or booty from treasure hunts, that are discoveries of great historical and monetary worth.