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Definition of inherit

inherit

/ɪnˈhɛrɪt/
in · her · it
Adjective:inheritable
•
Past Simple:inherited
•
Past Participle:inherited
•
Present Participle:inheriting
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inherit Lexical Profile

inherit Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To receive money, property, or a title as an heir upon the death of the previous holder.

Example

"She will inherit the family estate when her grandfather passes away."

2

To derive a quality, physical characteristic, or predisposition genetically from one's parents or ancestors.

Example

"He inherited his mother's curly hair and his father's patience."

3

To receive or be left with a situation, responsibility, or problem from a predecessor.

Example

"The incoming administration will inherit a substantial budget deficit from the previous government."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for inherit

• Rhymes for inherit

• Nearby Words

inharmonious
inherent
inherently
inherit
inheritable
inheritably
inheritance

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Old French enheriter, from Late Latin inhereditare ('to appoint as heir'), ultimately derived from Latin heres ('heir').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Inherit. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/inherit
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