Posterity: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to talk about future generations in a broad sense, emphasizing long-term continuity and impact.

• We must preserve the environment for posterity.
• These historical records have been kept for the benefit of posterity.

Refers to people who are related to someone from an earlier generation, often focusing on lineage and ancestry.

• She traced her family tree back six generations to see her descendants.
• The queen's descendants still live in the old castle.

Refers to the biological children or young of a person, animal, or plant. Often used in a biological or familial context.

• The bird fed its offspring diligently.
• They were proud of their offspring's achievements.

Typically used in legal or financial contexts to describe individuals who are entitled to inherit someone's property or title after they die. Can carry a slightly formal or contractual tone.

• He designated his daughter as his sole heir.
• The estate was divided among the rightful heirs.

Used to indicate those who follow another in a specific role, position, or office, highlighting the aspect of continuation.

• The new CEO was seen as a worthy successor to her predecessor.
• He trained his successor to take over the company.