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n. 1. Property that is or can be inherited; an inheritance. 2. Something that is passed down from preceding generations; a tradition. 3. The status acquired by a person through birth; a birthright: a heritage of affluence and social position. 4. A domesticated animal or a crop of a traditional breed, usually not widely produced for commercial purposes. [Middle English, from Old French, from eritier, heir, from Medieval Latin hērēditārius, from Latin, inherited; see HEREDITARY.] Synonyms: heritage, inheritance, legacy, tradition These nouns denote something immaterial, such as a practice or custom, that is passed from one generation to another: a heritage of volunteerism; a rich inheritance of storytelling; a legacy of philosophical thought; the family tradition of going for a walk on Thanksgiving. |
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