thēsaurus
masculine
The English word treasure is translated into Latin as thēsaurus.
The term refers to a collection of valuable things. It is the standard term used in both formal contexts and in Ecclesiastical Latin.
Meaning: collection of valuable things (noun)
Which one should you use?
While thēsaurus is the standard term, gaza serves as an alternative translation in Medieval Latin.
Is it said differently in some regions?
The term gaza is specifically associated with Medieval Latin usage.
How does it change in a sentence?
The form thēsaurus is a masculine noun.
Did you know?
- In the context of the Catholic Church, thēsaurus can refer not just to gold, but to the 'thēsaurus operum meritorum', a spiritual treasure of merits attributed to saints.
- While 'thēsaurus' implies a storehouse of wealth, the Medieval Latin term gaza was often used to describe the specific, often illicit, loot or 'booty' taken during warfare.
- The Latin thēsaurus is closely related to the Greek word 'thēsauros', meaning a 'storehouse' or 'place of deposit', which passed into many European languages.
Examples in context
- In hoc loco thēsaurus latet.A treasure lies hidden in this place.
- Magnus thēsaurus in arca est.A great treasure is in the chest.
- Regis thēsaurus multum pretium habet.The king's treasure has much value.
Example conversation
Two explorers discuss a discovery in a cave.
- AureliaMarce, vide! Thēsaurus hic est.Marcus, look! This is a treasure.
- MarcusVerum est, Aurelia, valde splendet.It is true, Aurelia, it shines brightly.
- AureliaNum hunc thēsaurum portare possumus?Can we carry this treasure?
- MarcusNon, nimis gravis est.No, it is too heavy.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “treasure” translations, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
