Meaning & Definition of word "Legacy"
Legacy
/ˈlɛɡəsi/
noun:
- 1. Something handed down from an ancestor or a predecessor or from the past.
- Example: The old mansion stands as a legacy of the family's rich history.
- 2. A gift of property, especially personal property, as money or a title, given to someone by will.
- Example: She bequeathed her entire estate as a legacy to her children.
- 3. A lasting impact or influence, particularly in a professional or cultural context.
- Example: The scientist's legacy will continue to inspire future generations of researchers.
- 4. An amount of money or property left to someone in a will.
- Example: He received a significant legacy from his grandmother.
Etymology
●From Latin 'legatia', meaning 'deputation, envoy, commission'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
leave a legacy:
to have a positive impact or influence that continues after one's death.
legacy system:
an outdated computer system or application that is still in use.
living legacy:
an individual who is still alive but has made a significant impact that is remembered.
Related Words
inheritance:
the assets passed down from an ancestor.
heritage:
a legacy of property or cultural traditions.
endowment:
a donation of money or property to an institution.
Slang Meanings of legacy
Meaning: A term used to describe a significant contribution.
● Example Sentence: He left a serious legacy in the music world.
Meaning: Referring to deprecated technology but still in use due to its historical significance.
● Example Sentence: We're still using that old program because it has a legacy value.