Hoarding: meaning, definitions and examples

This term is a repetition and has the same context and examples as the first instance.

• He's been hoarding newspapers in his attic for decades
• The hoarding of food during the pandemic caused shortages

This word is typically used when someone is gathering a large quantity of something, usually in preparation for a shortage or emergency. It can have a neutral to negative connotation, depending on the context.

• People started stockpiling toilet paper at the start of the pandemic
• Governments are stockpiling vaccines to be prepared for future outbreaks

This word is used when someone is gathering items, often as a hobby or for a specific purpose. It generally has a positive or neutral connotation.

• He enjoys collecting stamps from different countries
• She has been collecting seashells since she was a child

Use this word when talking about gradually gathering a quantity of something over time. It can be used in both a positive and neutral context.

• She is accumulating wealth through her investments
• Snow has been accumulating on the streets since last night

Used when referring to the act of collecting large quantities of items, often perceived negatively as it implies excessive or unnecessary accumulation.

• The hoarding of toilet paper during the pandemic led to shortages.
• Her hoarding habits made her house nearly unlivable.

Refers to a large amount of something that someone has saved or hidden. It can sometimes imply secrecy or greed.

• He had a secret hoard of candy hidden in his desk.
• The squirrel had a hoard of nuts stored for the winter.

Describes a secret or private collection of items, often implying that these items are valuable or being kept hidden for personal use.

• He had a stash of money hidden in his sock drawer.
• She always keeps a stash of chocolate for emergencies.

Represents a group of things placed one on top of another, often implying disorganization or a lack of storage.

• She had a pile of clothes on her bed that needed folding.
• There was a pile of books on his desk.