verb

inherit

in-HAIR-it/ɪnˈherɪt/

To receive what passes down from a predecessor.

The adult inherits a well-used woodworking tool from an older relative.

Adult receives a well-used family woodworking tool from older relative, warm handover across generations showing property received.

Etymology

The prefixed verb originally meant putting someone in the position of an heir. Its meaning shifted from appointing an heir to receiving what a previous possessor passes on.

In context

60 Minutes Australia0:20

she convinced new york's rich and famous she was a german heiress about to inherit a 60 million us dollar fortune

How con-artist Anna Sorokin ripped off the New York elite and became a star | 60 Minutes Australia

More examples

Children can inherit eye color from either parent.
The new manager inherits a team with serious staffing problems.
When the king dies, his eldest daughter inherits the throne.

Forms

inherit · inherits · inherited · inheriting

inheritance noun — Money or property received after someone's death.

inheritor noun — Someone who receives something from a predecessor.

Similar words

receive: Receive is broader and does not imply passing between generations.
acquire: Acquire includes gaining things through effort, purchase, or inheritance.