Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Patrimony Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🏛️
Add to dictionary

patrimony

[ˈpætrɪməni ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

cultural heritage

Patrimony refers to the cultural heritage or assets that are inherited from ancestors or passed down through generations. It can include traditions, customs, beliefs, monuments, artworks, and other aspects of a society's history and identity.

Synonyms

heritage, inheritance, legacy.

Examples of usage

  • The country's patrimony includes ancient ruins, historical buildings, and traditional crafts.
  • Preserving our cultural patrimony is crucial for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
  • The museum showcases the rich patrimony of the indigenous tribes through their artifacts and artworks.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'patrimony'

The word 'patrimony' originated from the Latin word 'patrimonium', which means 'inheritance from a father'. It was first used in English in the 15th century to refer to inherited property or assets. Over time, its meaning expanded to include cultural heritage and intangible assets passed down through generations. The concept of patrimony plays a significant role in preserving and promoting a society's history and identity.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,629, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.