Definition of heritage

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< heritable

heritor >

her·i·tage    (hr-tj) KEY 

NOUN:

1. Property that is or can be inherited; an inheritance.
2. Something that is passed down from preceding generations; a tradition.
3. The status acquired by a person through birth; a birthright: a heritage of affluence and social position.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Old French, from eritier, heir, from Medieval Latin hrditrius, from Latin, inherited ; see hereditary

SYNONYMS:
heritage, inheritance, legacy, tradition

These nouns denote something immaterial, such as a custom, that is passed from one generation to another: a heritage of moral uprightness; a rich inheritance of storytelling; a legacy of philosophical thought; the tradition of noblesse oblige.