Héréditaire (en. Hereditary)

/e.ʁe.di.tɛʁ/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
adjective
Referring to a trait, condition, or illness that one inherits from their ancestors.
Some diseases are hereditary and can be passed down from generation to generation.
Certaines maladies sont héréditaires et peuvent être transmises de génération en génération.
Related to heredity.
Hereditary traits play a significant role in the physical appearance of individuals.
Les traits héréditaires jouent un grand rôle dans la physique des individus.
Referring to a title or property obtained by inheritance.
He inherited a hereditary estate from his family.
Il a hérité d'un domaine héréditaire de sa famille.

Etymology

From Latin 'hereditarius', meaning 'related to inheritance'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

hereditary disease
A disease that can be genetically transmitted.
maladie héréditaire
hereditary succession
Transfer of property from a deceased person to their heirs.
succession héréditaire
hereditary traits
Traits or characteristics passed from parents to children.
caractères héréditaires

Related Words

inheritance
Transfer of property, rights, or values from one person to another after their death.
héritage
heredity
Transfer of biological traits from parent to child.
hérédité
to inherit
To receive property or characteristics due to blood relations.
hériter

Slang Meanings

Hereditary in the sense of a repetitive behavior within the family.
He has always had this character flaw; it’s surely hereditary.
Il a toujours eu ce défaut de caractère, c'est sûrement héréditaire.
Used to describe a heavy responsibility or legacy.
It’s a hereditary burden to manage the family business.
C'est un fardeau héréditaire de gérer l'entreprise familiale.