hereditary

This word describes a bridge between generations, whether that bridge is biological (DNA) or social (law and tradition). It implies an automatic transfer—something received by birth rather than earned through merit or acquired through effort. In medical contexts, it carries a neutral but often concerning tone, suggesting a predetermined vulnerability or trait. Unlike 'congenital', which refers to anything present at birth regardless of cause, 'hereditary' specifically points to the ancestral line. In political or social contexts, it often carries a connotation of exclusivity or traditionalism. It describes systems where power is locked within a bloodline, contrasting sharply with 'elective' or 'meritocratic' systems.