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

Weigand spends much of his time on house calls, reviving cherished heirlooms that have long fallen silent. — La'tasha Givens, CBS News, 20 Oct. 2026

One is infused with heirloom damask roses, while the other boasts ceremonial-grade matcha from Uji. — Kate Kassin, Bon Appetit Magazine, 17 Oct. 2026

Each episode of the ratings smash follows professional craftspeople from around the country who restore family heirlooms that have sentimental value for their owners. — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 16 Oct. 2026

Born out of a setup that beggars belief — weeks before heading to prison, convicted fraudster Elizabeth Holmes invited the filmmakers to embed with her and her family — YCSE has been handled like a priceless heirloom by its distributor, A24. — Nate Jones, Vulture, 16 Oct. 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