heirloom

noun

heir·​loom ˈer-ˌlüm 

1

: 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

2

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

The pin she's wearing is a family heirloom.

3

: 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

Examples of heirloom in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Watch Maria on Netflix The Piano Lesson In Malcolm Washington's feature directorial debut, The Piano Lesson delves into the Charles family's struggle with a heavy decision surrounding their cherished heirloom piano. —Jacqueline Weiss, PEOPLE, 7 Sep. 2025

To do so, a Smithsonian team traveled across the country and held events in which thousands of ordinary people brought in antiques and heirlooms to donate. —Christopher Cann, USA Today, 6 Sep. 2025

Teaming with Saillard for a multiday session, Swinton is to interact with red-carpet dresses, family heirlooms and items from her personal wardrobe, including her christening gown. —Miles Socha, Footwear News, 6 Sep. 2025

Antique furnishings and heirlooms from the Parker family’s time in the home give it character, yet the overall feel is fresh, welcoming, and refreshingly unfussy—a rarity among historic B&Bs. —Jill Robbins, Southern Living, 5 Sep. 2025

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 1

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