Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈhɛrɪt/

Definitions

• Verb: To receive something (such as money, property, or a trait) from someone after they die.
• Verb: To take or receive as a legal heir; to succeed to the position, rights, or obligations of a predecessor.
• Verb: To be born with or to receive as part of one's heritage (such as physical characteristics or a genetic trait).

Usage Examples

• She will inherit her grandmother's estate.
• The child inherited his father's artistic talent.
• He inherited the family business after his father's passing.

Etymology

From Middle English "inheriten," from Old French "enheriter," from Late Latin "inhaereditare," meaning to pass on as an heir, to take over an inheritance. It has been used in English since the 14th century.

Synonyms

• Receive
• Acquire
• Succumb to (in terms of inheritance)
• Take over
• Gain

Antonyms

• Forfeit
• Lose
• Disinherit
• Give away
• Transfer (in opposite direction)

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "inherit" may vary slightly depending on the region. In American English, the stress is typically on the second syllable, whereas in British English, it may be slightly more even across the word.

Historical Usage

The term "inherit" has historically been significant in the context of feudal systems and land ownership, where inheritance determined wealth, power, and social status. Its use expanded to include non-material inheritance, such as traits or qualities passed down genetically.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, inheritance is viewed as a means of preserving family legacy. The practice and laws surrounding inheritance can reflect social and cultural values, such as the importance of lineage, the roles of the eldest child, or gender-based inheritance rules.

More Information

The act of inheriting is often intertwined with legal, moral, and familial implications. Inheritance laws differ greatly from country to country, with some systems being heavily influenced by religious or cultural traditions. To explore inheritance practices globally, one can look into estate planning and succession laws.

• Law.com - Inheritance Laws
• Wikipedia - Inheritance
• Merriam-Webster Dictionary