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

Begin checking heirlooms for ripeness as soon as the fruit is colored from top to bottom. —Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2025

The theme relies on bold texture and color combinations give apparel heirloom qualities. —Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 6 Aug. 2025

Princess Diana's engagement ring was worth $37,500 Many royals often repurpose heirloom gems to create one-of-a-kind engagement rings. —Ariana Quihuiz, People.com, 3 Aug. 2025

From old stains to unpleasant smells, these quirks are worth fixing on your secondhand and heirloom finds. —Jennifer Prince, Southern Living, 2 Aug. 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