Word: Heir

Pronunciation

/eer/

Definitions

• Noun: A person who is legally entitled to inherit the property, title, or position of their ancestor upon their death. For example: “The young prince was the heir to the throne.”

  Extended meaning: In a broader sense, it can also refer to someone who will succeed or take over something, not necessarily related to inheritance by blood or law.

  • Noun (derivative form): Heirloom - a valuable object that has been passed down through generations of a family.

Phrases

• “The heir apparent” refers to the person who is expected to inherit a title or position, especially when this is evident or officially recognized.
• “Heir and successor” implies the one who is both destined to inherit and continue in the role or possession of another.
• “To be next in line to the throne” signifies being the direct heir to a monarch’s position.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The only heir of the vast fortune was his estranged daughter.”
• “She inherited the family business as the sole heir.”
• “The antique vase was a cherished heirloom passed down from her grandmother.”

Synonyms

• Successor
• Inheritor
• Descendant
• Progeny
• Beneficiary