What action does the term "hoard" refer to?

The term "hoard" specifically refers to the action of accumulating or stashing away items, often with a sense of secrecy or a desire to keep them for oneself. The concept of hoarding typically implies the gathering of resources or possessions—such as money, food, or valuable items—beyond what is necessary for immediate use. This behavior can stem from various motivations, including fear of scarcity, desire for control, or even anxiety related to loss.

Given the context of the choices, "hoard" directly implies a focus on collection and retention rather than distribution or generosity, which is reflected in the correct answer. The incorrect options involve actions that are contrary to the idea of hoarding. For example, giving away or sharing suggests an opposite behavior of generosity rather than accumulation. Similarly, spending freely also contradicts the notion of retaining or storing away resources. Thus, "accumulate or stash away" aligns perfectly with the definition of hoard, emphasizing the retention aspect of the term.