legacy
LEG-uh-see
/ˈleɡ.ə.si/
An amount of money or property left to someone in a will; a thing handed down by a predecessor.
Focuses on the lasting impact or the specific gift left behind by someone after they are gone.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'legatum', which means 'a thing delegated'. Originally, it was about sending an ambassador (a legate) with a specific message or power; later, it became about 'sending' your property to the next generation.
Word relationships
- bequest: Bequest is the legal act of leaving something; legacy is the thing itself and its ongoing impact.
Commonly confused with
- heritage: Heritage is the collective past we belong to; legacy is the individual mark we leave behind.
Word family
- legate (noun): A member of the clergy representing the Pope; an ambassador.
Collocations
- lasting legacy
- leave a legacy
- legacy of war
- enduring legacy
Example sentences
- "The billionaire's greatest legacy was the foundation he established to fight malaria." Philanthropy
- "The coach left a legacy of discipline and teamwork that lasted for decades." Sports
Memory hook
A legacy is like a 'leg' that helps your influence 'see' (legacy) into the future. The gift that stays.
When not to use
Avoid in very technical legal documents where 'bequest' or 'devise' might be more precise.
Fun facts
- In computing, a 'legacy system' is an old method, technology, or computer system that is still in use despite being outdated.
Explore more words
Also appears in
- Relationships → Generational Differences
- Technology → Technological Obsolescence
- Finance → Philanthropy & Charitable Giving
- Time & History → Preservation & Archiving
- Time & History → Commemoration & Remembrances
- Sports, Athletics & Recreation → Olympic & Global Tournaments
- Occasions, Holidays & Parties → Retirement Celebrations
- Student Life & Schooling → Greek Life & Fraternities/Sororities
- Student Life & Schooling → College Alumni & Networking
- Devices & Everyday Tech → Software Updates & Installation
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