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

Unlike the recently popular minimalist styles, real home decorating reflects memories, travel, and family—knickknacks, photographs, souvenirs, and heirlooms are embraced and incorporated. —Kristina McGuirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Apr. 2026

Dotted around the garden are memorabilia from the Spences’ time in Japan and heirlooms from Spence’s mother’s house. —Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Apr. 2026

Instead, try blending styles like pairing a modern sofa with a vintage table or placing a family heirloom next to a contemporary piece. —Nomita Vaish-Taylor, The Spruce, 3 Apr. 2026

Gift, prep, serve and decorate with heirloom-quality boards from Maple Leaf at Home. —Tory Johnson, ABC News, 2 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