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

Insalata di Pomodori is simple but brought to greatness by super-sweet heirloom tomatoes, served with pecorino sardo and kalamata olives. — Connie Ogle july 31, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026

The heirloom tomato and romanesco cauliflower candles are so realistic, they could easily be mistaken for a farmers market haul. — Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 July 2026

Wells’s salads combined white peaches, heirloom tomatoes and cucumbers, all hovering at peak summer perfection. — David Hochman, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026

Shop early for your best chance at securing the heirloom-worthy arrivals. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 29 July 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