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hereditary

/həˈɹɛdɪt(ə)ɹi/

This word is used in two very different contexts: science (genetics) and law/politics (titles). When talking about health, it refers to things passed through DNA. When talking about power or property, it refers to a legal right passed down through a family line. In this sense, it is often used to describe 'hereditary peers' or 'hereditary monarchs'.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Tuesday afternoon; Chloe is in a lecture hall, Karen is at a PTA meeting.
Chloe Smith

pretty sure my anxiety is just hereditary tbh.

Chloe Smith
Karen Smith
Karen Smith

don't try to pin your drama on me. get a grip.

💡
Chloe uses 'tbh' (to be honest) and the term 'hereditary' to jokingly blame her mother for her mental state, while Karen responds with 'get a grip', an idiom meaning to regain self-control or stop behaving irrationally.

Meanings

adjective

Determined by genetic factors and passed from parent to offspring.

"Hemophilia is a hereditary condition that affects blood clotting."

adjective

Transmitted from ancestor to descendant, typically referring to a title, office, or right of ownership.

"The monarchy in some nations remains a hereditary system."

Related Words

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error