heirloom

noun

heir·​loom ˈer-ˌlüm 

1

: something of special value handed down from one generation to another

The pin she's wearing is a family heirloom.

2

: a variety of plant that has originated under cultivation and that has survived for several generations usually due to the efforts of private individuals

heirloom tomatoes

3

: a piece of property (such as a deed or charter) that descends to the heir as an inseparable part of an inheritance of real property

Examples of heirloom in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Sentimental items can be anything from old letters and family heirlooms to yearbooks and baby books. —Alexandra Kelly, Martha Stewart, 26 Apr. 2026

This sideboard looks like an heirloom piece with its visible woodgrain, antique hardware, and subtle distressing. —Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 25 Apr. 2026

The more delicate heirloom varieties of tomatoes and onions are in one of the beds, protected by a mesh enclosure so birds cannot harvest them before Ramona has an opportunity to do so. —Elizabeth Marie Himchak, San Diego Union-Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026

Fletcher’s, in particular, has multiple rooms, antique furniture, family heirlooms, and vintage children’s books. —Lauren Jones, Travel + Leisure, 19 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English ayre lome, heyr lome, from ayre, heyr heir entry 1 + lome "implement" — more at loom entry 1

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for heirloom

• assume
• backroom
• ballroom
• barroom
• bathroom
• bedroom
• boardroom
• bridegroom
• classroom
• cloakroom
• consume
• costume

Kids Definition

heirloom

noun

heir·​loom ˈa(ə)r-ˌlüm 

ˈe(ə)r-

: a piece of personal property handed down from generation to generation