Successor

/səkˈsɛsər/

Meaning & Definition

noun
A person or thing that succeeds another, often in a position, role, or title.
The CEO announced her retirement, and her successor will be chosen at the next board meeting.
An entity that follows another in a line of descent or succession.
The new software version will be the successor to the previous one, offering enhanced features.
A person who inherits or is next in line for a title, office, or property.
Prince Charles became the successor to the throne following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.
The next in a sequence or series.
The successor to the popular video game franchise is highly anticipated by fans.

Etymology

From Latin 'successor', from 'succedere' meaning 'to come after'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

successor company
A company that takes over another company’s operations or functions.
successor state
A state that follows another in terms of territory or sovereignty.
next in line
A phrase indicating the successor in a hierarchy.

Related Words

predecessor
A person or thing that precedes another.
inheritance
The act of receiving property or rights from a predecessor.
succession
The process of inheriting a title, property, or office.

Slang Meanings

The next big thing
This product is being touted as the successor to last year's hit.
Heir apparent
He's seen as the successor to the founder’s vision for the company.