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

From temperature to packing materials, learn which antique storage mistakes to avoid to keep your heirlooms in great condition. — Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 July 2026

Pair with an heirloom quilt to round out the design aesthetic. — Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 16 July 2026

One heirloom pie that’s ubiquitously beloved is the Chocolate Chip Pie. — Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 15 July 2026

The Princess of Wales’s collection consists of her own pieces, as well as heirloom items from the likes of Diana and Queen Elizabeth. — Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 14 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