Meaning & Definition of word "Inherit"

Inherit

/ɪnˈhɛrɪt/

verb:

  • 1. To receive (property, a title, or office) as an heir at the death of the previous holder.
    • Example: She will inherit her grandmother's estate after she passes away.
  • 2. To receive something from someone as a characteristic or quality.
    • Example: He inherited his mother's artistic talent.
  • 3. To take on or continue a tradition or practice.
    • Example: The community aims to inherit the cultural traditions of their ancestors.
  • 4. To derive (a quality or characteristic) from a predecessor or ancestor.
    • Example: Animals inherit survival traits from their ancestors through natural selection.

Etymology

Middle English, from Old French 'enheriter', from Latin 'inhaereditare'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

inherit the earth:

To gain the ultimate rewards or benefits of life.

inherit from:

To receive something from a specific person or source.

Related Words

heir:

A person who is legally entitled to the property or rank of another on that person's death.

lineage:

Direct descent from an ancestor; ancestry or pedigree.

legacy:

Something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor.

Slang Meanings of inherit

Meaning: To come into wealth or possessions suddenly.

Example Sentence: After his uncle passed away, he hit the jackpot and inherited.

Meaning: To take on someone's habits or characteristics.

Example Sentence: She totally inherited his sense of humor.