Definition

The action of taking away someone's right to inherit property or money from a family member, usually through a legal process.

Example

The disinheritance of the eldest son caused a lot of family disputes.

Conversation

Did you hear about the disinheritance in that famous family?

Yeah, it's shocking how some parents can just cut off their kids like that.

I wonder what could lead someone to consider disinheritance as an option.

It must be really complicated — I can't imagine the feelings involved.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Disinheritance → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "inheritance" (from Latin "inhereditare", meaning to receive as an heir). The word describes the act of taking away someone's right to inherit, effectively separating them from their inheritance.

Memory Tip

Think of being 'separated' ('dis-') from what you would normally 'receive as an heir' ('inheritance'). This helps you remember that disinheritance means losing the right to inherit.

Visually Confused Words