Hoarder Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
📦
hoarder
[ˈhɔːrdər ]
Definitions
person
A person who accumulates or hoards large quantities of objects or possessions, often to the point of excess and disorganization.
Synonyms
accumulator, collector, pack rat.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
hoarder |
Used when describing a person who accumulates items to an excessive degree, often leading to clutter and disorganization. This term can have a negative connotation.
|
collector |
Describes a person who actively seeks and acquires items of a particular kind, usually as a hobby or for their value. This term typically has a positive or neutral connotation.
|
pack rat |
A casual, colloquial term for someone who keeps a lot of items, often more than necessary. The term has a mildly negative but less formal connotation compared to 'hoarder'.
|
accumulator |
Refers to someone who gathers items or data over time. Used in a more general and neutral way, often without the negative implications of 'hoarder'.
|
Examples of usage
- The hoarder had so many newspapers in their house that they could barely walk through the rooms.
- My neighbor is a hoarder and their garage is filled with boxes of items they never use.
- The TV show featured a hoarder whose collection of items filled every corner of their home.
animals
An animal that hoards or hides food for later consumption, such as squirrels or certain birds.
Synonyms
cache builder, food storer.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
hoarder |
This word is commonly used to describe someone who accumulates an excessive amount of items, often unnecessarily. It usually has a negative connotation, implying that the person has a compulsion to collect and hold onto things, which may lead to clutter and disorder.
|
food storer |
This phrase is specific to someone who stores food, often for reasons such as preparedness, conservation, or upcoming use. It does not carry a negative connotation but rather suggests practicality.
|
cache builder |
This term is more neutral and can be used in contexts involving someone who systematically stores items, particularly for future use. It implies organization and foresight rather than compulsion.
|
Examples of usage
- The squirrel is known as a hoarder, storing nuts and seeds for the winter months.
- Certain bird species are considered hoarders as they collect food and hide it in various locations.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Origin of 'hoarder'
The term 'hoarder' originated from the Middle English word 'hordere', which meant a person who hoarded treasure or valuable items. Over time, the meaning evolved to include individuals who excessively collect or store objects. The concept of hoarding has been present throughout history, with references in literature and psychology dating back centuries.
See also: hoarding.