bequest
UK: bɪˈkwest | US: bɪˈkwest
n. a gift of personal property or money left to someone in a will
n. something handed down or transmitted, especially as a legacy
The word "bequest" originated in Middle English as "biqueste," derived from Old English "becwethan" (to declare, leave by will). It combines the intensifying prefix "be-" with "quest," reflecting the act of formally "seeking" or "declaring" the transfer of property after death. Over time, it narrowed to specifically denote inherited gifts through legal wills.
The museum received a valuable bequest of antique paintings.
Her bequest to the charity totaled over a million dollars.
The family disputed the terms of the uncle’s bequest.
He made a bequest of his entire library to the university.
The will included a surprising bequest to his former assistant.