Definition

A person who is legally entitled to receive property or a title from someone who has died, or who is expected to take over a position or role from someone else.

Example

As the only child, she was the sole heir to her father's fortune.

Conversation

Did you hear that Jake is the new heir to his grandfather's estate?

Really? I didn't know his family had so much property.

Yeah, it's quite a lot, and he's a bit overwhelmed by it all.

I can imagine! Being an heir comes with a lot of responsibility.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heir → The word 'heir' comes from Old French 'eir' (meaning one who inherits) and is derived from Latin 'heres' (meaning heir or successor). It refers to a person who is entitled to inherit property or a title from another.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who is 'entitled to inherit' — that's what an heir is.

Visually Confused Words