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

Multiple varieties of sweet peas, many of them heirlooms, are available to order from the site. —Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 7 Feb. 2026

The seasonal dinner series highlights the heirloom produce grown on-site and local ingredients native to the Hudson Valley. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Feb. 2026

Skyr contains heirloom skyr cultures, such as Streptococcus thermophilus islandicus, as well as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species. —Jillian Kubala, Health, 6 Feb. 2026

According to investigators, the revolver was a family heirloom, and Holly did not have regular access to the safe. —Bradford Betz, FOXNews.com, 5 Feb. 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