Definition

Able to be passed down from parents to their children, often referring to traits or characteristics.

Example

Certain diseases are heritable, meaning they can be passed from parents to their offspring.

Conversation

Did you know that some traits are heritable?

Yeah, I heard that from a biology podcast I listened to.

It's interesting how characteristics can be passed down through families.

Definitely! It makes you think about what traits we might inherit.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heritable is formed from "herit" (from Old French *heritier*, meaning to inherit) and "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "heritable" refers to something that is capable of being inherited.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'capable of being inherited' — 'herit' relates to inheritance, and '-able' means capable.

Visually Confused Words