Inheriting: meaning, definitions and examples

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inheriting

 

[ ɪnˈhɛrɪtɪŋ ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

legal context

Inheriting refers to the process by which an individual receives property, rights, or obligations from a deceased relative, typically through a will or by law. This process is governed by legal statutes that outline how assets are distributed among heirs. Inheriting may involve various types of assets, including real estate, money, and personal belongings. It is a fundamental aspect of estate planning and can have significant implications for taxes and family relationships.

Synonyms

acquiring, receiving, taking over

Examples of usage

  • She is inheriting her grandmother's house.
  • He is inheriting a large sum of money.
  • They are inheriting the family business.
Context #2 | Verb

genetic context

Inheriting can also refer to the transmission of genetic traits from parents to offspring. This biological process plays a crucial role in determining physical and personality characteristics, as traits are passed down through genes. Inheriting genetic material can influence various aspects of an individual's health and behavior.

Synonyms

bequeathing, passing down, transmitting

Examples of usage

  • He is inheriting his father's blue eyes.
  • She is inheriting a talent for music from her mother.
  • They are inheriting predispositions to certain diseases.

Translations

Translations of the word "inheriting" in other languages:

🇵🇹 herdar

🇮🇳 विरासत में लेना

🇩🇪 erben

🇮🇩 mewarisi

🇺🇦 успадкування

🇵🇱 odziedziczenie

🇯🇵 相続する

🇫🇷 hériter

🇪🇸 heredar

🇹🇷 miras almak

🇰🇷 상속하다

🇸🇦 وراثة

🇨🇿 zdědění

🇸🇰 zdedenie

🇨🇳 继承

🇸🇮 dedovanje

🇮🇸 erfði

🇰🇿 мұрагерлік

🇬🇪 მემკვიდრეობა

🇦🇿 irsi

🇲🇽 heredar

Etymology

The word 'inherit' comes from the Latin term 'inhereditare', which means 'to make heir, to come into possession of'. It has been used in the English language since the late Middle Ages. The sense of inheriting goes beyond just material possessions; it encompasses the legal, cultural, and biological dimensions of passing down rights or traits across generations. 'Inheriting' is often associated with family dynamics and can involve complexities regarding the distribution of wealth and the rights of heirs. The practice has been a significant aspect of human society, shaping laws and social norms around family relationships and property rights throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,716, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.