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

RadarOnline is reporting that the two are planning to sell family heirlooms and personal gifts received from Queen Elizabeth in order to support their lifestyle. —Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 13 Dec. 2025

Alexia Wilborn, a content creator from Las Vegas, is on the hunt for her grandmother's wedding dress, as she's always wanted to wear the heirloom for her own big day. —Rachel Raposas, PEOPLE, 12 Dec. 2025

And in summer, a panzanella tossed heirloom tomatoes and juicy cucumbers in a roasted tomato vinaigrette. —Amanda Hancock, Louisville Courier Journal, 12 Dec. 2025

The collection originally launched in 1968 and its enduring popularity ensures this heirloom will never go out of style. —Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 12 Dec. 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 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