Prize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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prize

[praɪz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

award for achievement

A prize is something valuable that is given to someone who has achieved success in a competition, contest, or game. It serves as a reward for excellence or accomplishment.

Synonyms

award, medal, reward, trophy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
prize	Typically used in competitions, lotteries, or contests to denote something won, often as part of a game or challenge. She won the first prize in the essay competition. The prize for the raffle is a brand new car.
award	Usually given in recognition of an achievement, effort, or excellence in a particular field, often accompanied by a formal ceremony. He received an award for his outstanding performance in the project. The Nobel Prize is one of the most prestigious awards in the world.
trophy	Usually a physical item, like a cup or statue, awarded in competitions, sports, or for notable accomplishments as a symbol of victory or achievement. The team proudly displayed their championship trophy. She has a shelf full of swimming trophies.
medal	Commonly given in sporting events, military service, or as a commemoration, often in the form of a round, flat piece of metal. She was awarded a gold medal for her performance in the Olympics. He received a medal of honor for his bravery in the battlefield.
reward	Given in return for a particular action or effort, often used in the context of incentives or compensation. It can sometimes carry a negative connotation if used manipulatively. The company offered a reward for information leading to the capture of the hacker. Parents often reward their children with treats for good behavior.

Examples of usage

She won first prize in the science fair.
The Nobel Prize is a prestigious award given for outstanding contributions in various fields.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to value highly

To prize something means to regard it with great value or importance. It can also refer to the act of valuing or treasuring something highly.

Synonyms

cherish, esteem, treasure, value.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
prize	Can also be used to indicate valuing something highly or being proud of it. He prized his vintage car above everything else. She prizes her freedom and independence.
value	Typically used to express the worth or importance of something or someone, either material or abstract. They value honesty and hard work. She values his opinion highly.
treasure	Usually similar to cherish but with more emphasis on the value and rare nature of something, often used in sentimental or emotional contexts. He treasures his grandmother’s old letters. She treasures the friendships she made in college.
cherish	Often used to express deep love and care for someone or something, usually implying holding it dear in one’s heart. She will always cherish the memories of her childhood. He cherishes the time spent with his family.
esteem	Generally used to show a high regard or admiration for someone’s qualities or achievements. She is held in high esteem by her colleagues. He esteems his mentor for guidance and support.

Examples of usage

She prized her grandmother's antique jewelry collection.
He prizes honesty above all other virtues.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Pop Culture

In many countries, prizes often include trophies, medals, or cash awards during competitions, from local events to the Olympics.
Television game shows popularized the idea of winning prizes, creating excitement around unexpected rewards.
Literature often uses 'prizes' as narrative devices to drive characters and plot, representing goals or ambitions.

Psychology

Winning a prize can trigger the brain's reward system, releasing dopamine, which creates feelings of happiness and fulfillment.
Research suggests that the anticipation of a prize can motivate behavior and enhance performance in tasks.
The potential to win a prize can significantly increase engagement and persistence in challenging activities.

History

Throughout history, prizes have been used in cultures for contests ranging from sports to poetry and art, often symbolizing social status.
The Nobel Prizes were established in 1895, recognizing outstanding contributions in various fields including peace, literature, and science.
Prizes have been used as incentives in education, promoting learning and competition among students since ancient times.

Education

Teachers often use prizes to encourage student participation and reward good behavior, making learning more engaging.
Prizes can motivate students to strive for excellence, fueling a positive classroom environment.
Educational contests and challenges often offer prizes as incentives to promote skill development and collaboration.

Origin of 'prize'

Main points about word origin

The word 'prize' comes from the Latin word 'præmium', meaning reward or payment.
It has traveled through Old French language forms before landing in English, adapting its current meaning.
Originally, it also referred to something seized; over time, it shifted to mean rewards for accomplishments.

The word 'prize' originated from the Latin word 'pretium', meaning 'price' or 'value'. Over time, it evolved to represent a valuable award or reward given for achievement. The concept of prizes can be traced back to ancient civilizations where gifts or honors were bestowed upon individuals for their accomplishments.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,439, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.

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4438 unfair
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4442 eighty
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