stockpile

Definition

A supply (especially a large one) of something kept for future use, specifically in case the cost of the item increases or if there a shortage.

Etymology

The noun is derived from stock (“supply of anything ready for use”) + pile (“mass of things heaped together”). The verb is derived from the noun.

Example Sentences

• "Under the rice subsidy program, Yingluck [Shinawatra]'s administration paid farmers up to 50 percent more than market prices for their rice. The policy was popular with farmers but left Thailand with huge rice stockpiles and caused $8 billion in losses."