Synonyms for

Inheritance

Verb / ˌɪˈnherʌtʌns / Another word for inheritance — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Inheritance is something that is passed down from an ancestor after they die, usually money or property.

Synonyms & similar words

hereditarypattern heritage bequest endowment legacy patrimony provision bestowal gift heritage devise settlement estate grant benefaction contribution donation alms charity present bonus premium

Synonyms by register

Formal

succession bequest legacy devise

Informal

hand-me-down heirloom gift

Literary

heritage birthright patrimony

Antonyms

privation deprivation lack want poverty need

Common collocations

  • genetic inheritance
  • inheritance tax
  • inheritance rights
  • receive an inheritance
  • expect an inheritance
  • inheritance of property
  • inheritance dispute

Word family

noun inheritance
verb inherit
adjective hereditary

Usage note

While 'inheritance' can refer to receiving money or property, it also broadly applies to traits or qualities passed down from parents, including genetic ones. Be mindful of the context to avoid confusion.

Example sentences

  1. My grandmother left me a small inheritance in her will.
  2. He inherited the family farm as his inheritance.
  3. The wealthy businessman left a large inheritance to his children.
  4. The inheritance tax was a burden on the family's finances.
  5. She used her inheritance to start her own business.

Quotes

  • An inheritance is what you leave for people, not what you leave to them.
  • An inheritance is what a person leaves behind to his heirs or to others after he is gone.
  • Inheritance taxes are so high that the happiest mourner at a rich man's funeral is usually Uncle Sam.

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words