heirloom
noun
heir·loom ˈer-ˌlüm 
1
: a piece of property (such as a deed or charter) that descends to the heir as an inseparable part of an inheritance of real property
2
: something of special value handed down from one generation to another
The pin she's wearing is a family heirloom.
3
: a variety of plant that has originated under cultivation and that has survived for several generations usually due to the efforts of private individuals
heirloom tomatoes
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web My gown is going to be passed down as a family heirloom. 
Michelle Lee, Peoplemag, 8 Aug. 2022 Manuel Garcia-Rulfo’s most important piece of film memorabilia is also a family heirloom: the editing machine that once belonged to his grandfather. Gabriel Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2022 Generations to come will appreciate the premium heirloom-quality wood cutting boards from Fifth and Cherry. Amanda Lauren, Forbes, 25 Apr. 2022 Like a family heirloom, housing insecurity is often passed down from one generation to another. Sam Russek, The New Republic, 24 Feb. 2022 With over 20 beautiful colorways, all naturally dyed, Bed Threads has artfully mastered heirloom quality linen at an affordable price point. Samantha Rees, Vogue, 23 Dec. 2021 This heirloom squash has a cream and green-striped rind. Arricca Elin Sansone, House Beautiful, 23 Aug. 2022 Use a short and wide heirloom pumpkin as the vessel for your Thanksgiving centerpiece. Megan Boettcher, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Aug. 2022 Instead of the usual mac and cheese or mashed potatoes and gravy, Yardy’s fried chicken is served with a market fresh salad and a chunk of cornbread made from heirloom corn, healthful sides each highlighting Northwest ingredients. Michael Russell, oregonlive, 22 July 2022 See More
Michelle Lee, Peoplemag, 8 Aug. 2022 Manuel Garcia-Rulfo’s most important piece of film memorabilia is also a family heirloom: the editing machine that once belonged to his grandfather. Gabriel Lopez, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2022 Generations to come will appreciate the premium heirloom-quality wood cutting boards from Fifth and Cherry. Amanda Lauren, Forbes, 25 Apr. 2022 Like a family heirloom, housing insecurity is often passed down from one generation to another. Sam Russek, The New Republic, 24 Feb. 2022 With over 20 beautiful colorways, all naturally dyed, Bed Threads has artfully mastered heirloom quality linen at an affordable price point. Samantha Rees, Vogue, 23 Dec. 2021 This heirloom squash has a cream and green-striped rind. Arricca Elin Sansone, House Beautiful, 23 Aug. 2022 Use a short and wide heirloom pumpkin as the vessel for your Thanksgiving centerpiece. Megan Boettcher, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Aug. 2022 Instead of the usual mac and cheese or mashed potatoes and gravy, Yardy’s fried chicken is served with a market fresh salad and a chunk of cornbread made from heirloom corn, healthful sides each highlighting Northwest ingredients. Michael Russell, oregonlive, 22 July 2022 See More Word History
Etymology
Middle English ayre lome, heyr lome, from ayre, heyr heir entry 1 + lome "implement" — more at loom entry 1
First Known Use
15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Kids Definition
heirloom
noun
heir·loom ˈer-ˌlüm
: a piece of personal property handed down in a family from one generation to another
heirlooms
noun
as in gifts
something that is or may be inherited Her watch is a family heirloom. Synonyms & Similar Words
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