heirloom

noun

heir·​loom ˈer-ˌlüm How to pronounce heirloom (audio)
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
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.
Lucious heirloom tomatoes, zucchini, squash, baby tomatoes galore and leafy vegetables fill long tables. Daniella Walsh, Oc Register, 26 July 2025 There are countless articles on how to make the effortless heirloom tomato salads, all set against a backdrop of vaguely Italian vibes, as though promoting an idyllic Amalfi coast vacation. Alana Al-Hatlani, Southern Living, 25 July 2025 To find that heirloom quality of Victorian design lore, look no further than Greenrow’s Liona bar cart with Barley twist legs to charm you an dyour guests. Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 24 July 2025 Lop off the tops and bottoms of giant heirloom tomatoes like Cherokee Purples or Red Zebras endowed with divine characteristics through fine lineage, including a gorgeous ugliness, striking Technicolors, patterns, and a seductive sweetness. Catharine Kaufman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 July 2025 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 1

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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Heirloom.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heirloom. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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