prized
UK: praɪzd | US: praɪzd
adj. highly valued or cherished
vt. past tense of "prize" (to value something highly)
The word "prized" derives from the verb "prize," which originated in the late 16th century from the noun "prize" (meaning "reward" or "something won"). The noun "prize" (later "prize") itself came from Old French "pris" (meaning "price" or "value"), ultimately tracing back to Latin "pretium" (price, worth). The suffix "-ed" marks it as a past participle, indicating a state of being highly valued. The evolution reflects a shift from tangible rewards (e.g., spoils of war) to abstract appreciation.
The artifact was prized for its historical significance.
She prized honesty above all other virtues.
His prized collection of stamps was displayed in a glass case.
The recipe was a prized family secret.
They prized the painting so highly that they refused to sell it.