stash
UK: stæʃ | US: stæʃ
n. a secret store of valuables or money
vt. to hide or store something secretly
The word "stash" originated in the late 18th century, possibly from a dialectal variant of "stow" (to place or hide) or influenced by "cache." Its exact roots are unclear, but it evolved to mean a hidden supply, often associated with illicit goods. The modern sense of secretly storing valuables became prominent in the 20th century, especially in contexts like drug culture or financial secrecy.
He kept a stash of candy in his desk drawer.
The thief stashed the stolen jewelry under the floorboards.
She discovered her brother’s secret stash of comic books.
The spy had a stash of fake passports for emergencies.
They decided to stash their savings in a safe deposit box.