Inherit
/ɪnˈhɛrɪt/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo receive property, a title, or a characteristic by legal right from a person upon their death.
/ɪnˈhɛrɪt/
To receive property, a title, or a characteristic from a person by legal right upon that person's death.
She inherited a vast fortune from her uncle.
💡 Simply: Imagine your favorite aunt leaves you her awesome collection of comic books in her will. When you get them, you've *inherited* them. It's like getting a surprise gift, only the giver isn't around to see you enjoy it.
👶 For kids: To get something from someone after they die, like money or toys.
More Examples
He inherited his grandfather's antique car.
They are expected to inherit the family business.
How It's Used
"She inherited a large estate from her grandmother."
"He inherited his father's company."
To receive a quality or characteristic, especially a physical or behavioral trait, from one's parents or ancestors.
/ɪnˈhɛrɪt/
To receive a characteristic or quality from one's parents or ancestors through genes.
She inherited her artistic talent from her mother.
💡 Simply: Ever notice how you have your mom's curly hair or your dad's love for baseball? You *inherited* those things! It's like getting a free package of traits from your family, all thanks to your genes.
👶 For kids: To get something from your mom or dad, like your hair color or how good you are at drawing.
More Examples
He inherited a tendency toward diabetes.
Children often inherit traits from their parents.
How It's Used
"He inherited his mother's blue eyes."
"She inherited her father's sense of humor."
From Middle English *enheriten*, from Old French *eriter* (to possess as a heritage), from Latin *hereditas* (inheritance).
The word 'inherit' has been used since the 13th century, initially referring to the possession of property passed down through inheritance.
Memory tip
Think of a heir loom, something passed down through the family. Inherit is getting those things.
Practice
Word Origin
Root: hereditas