Hereditary
/həˈrɛd.ɪˌtɛr.i/noun
Relating to or denoting some characteristic or condition that is passed from one generation to another.
Did you know?The concept of hereditary not only refers to traits but also ties back to ancient beliefs about curses and blessings being passed down through bloodlines.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*h₁er-
“to pass on, to give”
Latin
Latin
hereditarius
“belonging to an heir, inherited”
Old French
Old French
hereditere
“to inherit or to be inherited”
14th Century
Middle English
hereditari
“pertaining to inheritance or descendants”
Modern English
English
hereditary
“relating to inheritance, especially in the context of titles or traits passed down”