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heritage

HEH-ruh-tij /ˈherɪtɪdʒ/

nounB1SATTOEFLIELTS

neutralacademic

Property, traditions, achievements, or beliefs that are inherited from past generations and valued in the present.

Refers to intangible cultural values, historical sites, or genetic traits that define a group's identity, carrying a sense of duty to preserve them.

The story behind the word. The word 'heritage' comes from the Old French 'eritage', which in turn derives from the Latin 'heres', meaning 'heir'. Originally, it referred to physical land or property that could be legally inherited, but over the centuries, it expanded to encompass the stories, values, and monuments of entire civilizations.

Word relationships

legacy: Legacy often refers to the long-lasting impact or physical gifts left by a specific individual, whereas heritage refers to collective cultural inheritance.
inheritance: Inheritance is typically used for private, legal, and financial assets passed down to heirs.

acquisition: An acquisition is something newly gained or purchased, rather than passed down from ancestors.

Commonly confused with

heredity: Heredity refers strictly to the biological transmission of genetic traits, while heritage refers to cultural, historical, or social legacies.

Word family

inherit (verb): To receive money, property, or a title from someone when they die.
inheritor (noun): A person who inherits something.

Collocations

cultural heritage
rich heritage
preserve heritage
heritage site

Example sentences

"The ancient castle is a vital part of the nation's cultural heritage." Discussing national preservation efforts.
"She was incredibly proud of her Irish heritage and spent years researching her family tree." Reflecting on personal identity.

Memory hook

Heritage is what we 'inherit' from our 'age'-old ancestors. Heritage is the historical inheritance of a culture.

When not to use

Do not use when referring strictly to financial inheritance or money left in a will, which is simply an 'inheritance'.

Fun facts

UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) maintains a list of World Heritage Sites, protecting over 1,100 locations of outstanding universal value.