prize 1 of 4

prize

2 of 4

adjective

prize

3 of 4

verb (1)

1
2
as in to pull
to raise, move, or pull apart with or as if with a lever trying to prize apart the jammed gears

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

prize

4 of 4

verb (2)

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun prize differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of prize are booty, loot, plunder, spoils, and spoil. While all these words mean "something taken from another by force or craft," prize applies to spoils captured on the high seas or territorial waters of the enemy.

the wartime right of seizing prizes at sea

Where would booty be a reasonable alternative to prize?

The meanings of booty and prize largely overlap; however, booty implies plunder to be shared among confederates.

thieves dividing up their booty

When would loot be a good substitute for prize?

While the synonyms loot and prize are close in meaning, loot applies especially to what is taken from victims of a catastrophe.

picked through the ruins for loot

When might plunder be a better fit than prize?

Although the words plunder and prize have much in common, plunder applies to what is taken not only in war but in robbery, banditry, grafting, or swindling.

a bootlegger's plunder

How do spoil and spoils relate to one another, in the sense of prize?

Spoil, more commonly spoils, applies to what belongs by right or custom to the victor in war or political contest.

the spoils of political victory

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of prize
Noun
What to know about Powerball The odds of scoring the jackpot prize are 1 in 292,201,338. Natalie Demaree, Miami Herald, 31 July 2025 Sentinel photographer Rich Pope was recognized with a third-place prize for his food photography that showcased the best bites in Central Florida for the paper’s annual Foodie Awards. Michael Cuglietta, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 July 2025
Verb
The tombstone is made from Gotland limestone, which was highly prized in the Middle Ages, and the relief depicts a knight sporting chainmail armor and mail leggings, with a sword and a shield. Jack Guy, CNN Money, 23 July 2025 It is prized for its eco-friendly credentials, durability, and distinct, textured aesthetic that brings instant warmth and character to a room. Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for prize
Recent Examples of Synonyms for prize
Noun
  • Like La Brea, what began as a commercial enterprise also unearthed scientific and historical treasures.
    Ian Rose, JSTOR Daily, 23 July 2025
  • Though, they have been known to try to snatch plastic water bottles and other treasures from guests' belongings (seems like fair revenge to me).
    Grace Tucker, The Enquirer, 23 July 2025
Noun
  • Variety is looking for rising artisans in the aforementioned fields who are in the awards race this season.
    Jazz Tangcay, Variety, 25 July 2025
  • Under each era are awards, concerts and 13 photos of the singer from the time.
    Bryan West, The Tennessean, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • Aloe vera is low-maintenance, making the houseplant an excellent option for beginner houseplant owners, who don’t have much time for excessive plant care.
    Michelle Mastro, Architectural Digest, 23 July 2025
  • One of the best examples is her novel Made for Love, perhaps better known as an HBO show starring the excellent Cristin Milioti.
    The Atlantic Culture Desk, The Atlantic, 23 July 2025
Noun
  • One of the best things about streamers like Tubi is finding hidden gems.
    Tanya Melendez, EW.com, 1 Aug. 2025
  • That being said, there are oddities and hidden gems worth checking out, whether to get a good laugh or find a new favorite novelty.
    Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 31 July 2025
Noun
  • Oval Beach often receives accolades as one of the best beaches in Michigan.
    Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 13 July 2025
  • Mayer previously ran the Mentors at Cordova High program and was awarded the 2012 Rancho Cordovan of the Year accolade.
    Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • With a solid data foundation, external factors like fuel prices or carrier availability can be incorporated into planning with greater confidence.
    Clemente Theotokis, Forbes.com, 31 July 2025
  • Their actions involved great risk, and some mothers themselves were disappeared by the military.
    Graciela Mochkofsky, New Yorker, 31 July 2025
Noun
  • However, the jewel of the hotel is its shimmering heated saltwater pool.
    Regan Stephens, Travel + Leisure, 11 July 2025
  • Kardashian's jewels also featured two Lorraine Schwartz necklaces with approximately 250 carats of diamonds.
    Catherine Santino, People.com, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • Brad Schmitt Hey there, new neighbors, and welcome back to our intro to Nashville and all the wonderful things the city has to offer you.
    Brad Schmitt, The Tennessean, 26 July 2025
  • Happy Birthday – and may every day be another wonderful secret.
    Aysha Bagchi, USA Today, 26 July 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Prize.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/prize. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

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