heirloom

noun

heir·​loom ˈer-ˌlüm How to pronounce heirloom (audio)
Synonyms of heirloom
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Owner Gayle Hill hosts several designer trunk shows a year for her loyal customers, who rely on the Maverick buyer's eye for heirloom-quality pieces. — Christine Lennon, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Aug. 2026 Juicy heirloom tomatoes, garlic, briny olives, bright vinegar, and fresh herbs come together in a delicious, zesty sauce. — Maddy Bendgen, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 Aug. 2026 Tomatoes that are soon to be processed can be picked ripe, as can heirloom tomatoes that will be served at restaurants within a few days. — Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 28 Aug. 2026 Libations lean sweet, with drinks like the Sweet Corn, made with Baby Jane heirloom corn bourbon and corn syrup. — Jenn Harris, Los Angeles Times, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for heirloom

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of heirloom was in the 15th century

Rhymes for heirloom

See All Rhymes for heirloom

Browse Nearby Words

heirless
heirloom
heirmos
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Heirloom.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heirloom. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

heirloom

noun
heir·​loom ˈa(ə)r-ˌlüm How to pronounce heirloom (audio)
ˈe(ə)r-
: a piece of personal property handed down from generation to generation

More from Merriam-Webster on heirloom

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for heirloom

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about heirloom

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