hereditary
UK: /həˈred.ɪ.tər.i/ | US: /həˈred.ɪ.ter.i/
adj. passed or capable of being passed genetically from parent to offspring
adj. legally or traditionally inherited (e.g., titles, property)
adj. derived from ancestry or tradition
The word traces back to Latin hereditarius, meaning "related to inheritance." The root hered- reflects the concept of passing down traits or possessions, while -itary transforms it into an adjective. Over time, "hereditary" expanded from legal inheritance (e.g., titles) to biological traits, mirroring societal and scientific understanding of lineage.
Hemophilia is a hereditary condition affecting blood clotting.
The throne passed to the king’s eldest son as part of the hereditary monarchy.
Some cultures practice hereditary leadership within families.
Her artistic talent seems hereditary, as both parents are painters.
The estate was divided according to hereditary rights.