Prized

Prized describes something highly valued or cherished, often due to its rarity, beauty, sentimental significance, or utility. It implies a deep appreciation and a strong emotional connection to the object or concept being valued. The term often suggests a conscious effort to protect or maintain the value of what is prized. Something prized may also be the object of competition or desire, highlighting its exceptional qualities and appeal to others. The level of value often determines the depth of the 'prize' assigned.

Prized meaning with examples

• The antique clock, a family heirloom, was the most prized possession in the grandmother's home. Its intricate craftsmanship and the memories it held made it invaluable. She spent hours cleaning it, ensuring it continued to function perfectly, and took great care to avoid damaging its delicate mechanism.
• Among collectors, the first edition of the novel was a prized acquisition. Its scarcity and historical significance significantly increased its value. The collector meticulously documented its provenance, understanding its preservation and appreciating its rarity made it an object of great value and great appeal.
• The artist’s paintings were prized for their bold use of color and imaginative themes. Collectors worldwide sought to add them to their collections. Each canvas was handled with extreme care, stored in climate-controlled environments to maintain their aesthetic and intrinsic value, each painting a prize.
• The company's employees are the company's most prized asset, crucial to their ongoing innovation and competitive success. They invest heavily in their training, benefits, and professional development to ensure the talent is sustained and that they feel valued. Each person, a prize.