とっておき

とっておき
noun, adjective (no)
prized, saved for a special occasion
1. something prized, saved for a special occasion
Something kept in reserve because it is special or valuable, intended to be used or shared at just the right moment.
とっておきのワインを()けた。
I opened a special bottle of wine I had been saving.
とっておきの場所(ばしょ)(おし)えてあげる。
I'll tell you about a special place I know.
誕生日(たんじょうび)のために、とっておきのプレゼントを用意(ようい)しておいた。
I had prepared a special present for the birthday.

とっておき comes from the verb ()っておく (to set aside, to save). It describes something that has been specially saved or reserved.

USAGE:

  • とっておきの + noun: a specially saved (noun)
  • とっておきを + verb: to (verb) one's prized thing

The word conveys a sense of something personally treasured that one is willing to share or use on a special occasion.