hereditary

Definition

Passed on as an inheritance, by last will or intestate.

Etymology

Inherited from Middle English hereditarie, from Latin hērēditārius, from hērēditās (“inheritance”), from hērēs (“heir”).

Example Sentences

• "Duke is a hereditary title which was created in Norman times."
• "hereditary rulers"
• "Haemophilia is hereditary in his family."

Related Words