1
2
: something of special value handed down from one generation to another
The pin she's wearing is a family heirloom.
3
: a variety of plant that has originated under cultivation and that has survived for several generations usually due to the efforts of private individuals
heirloom tomatoes
Examples of heirloom in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
That can include antiques, family heirlooms, or special mementos.
—
Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Apr. 2025
Tommy Wheeler, founder of Tidewater Grain, which grows heirloom crops in Pamlico County and distributes from Rowan County, is more optimistic.
—Nora O’Neill, Charlotte Observer, 7 Apr. 2025
Beyond the artwork, there are other family heirlooms, letters, and clothing on display.
—Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 6 Apr. 2025
The moveable tractor coop is in the field today, and the heirloom hens are inside, fertilizing the organic soil and eating insects.
—Scott Clark As Told To Betsy Andrews, Saveur, 3 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for heirloom
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Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Apr. 2025
Tommy Wheeler, founder of Tidewater Grain, which grows heirloom crops in Pamlico County and distributes from Rowan County, is more optimistic.
—Nora O’Neill, Charlotte Observer, 7 Apr. 2025
Beyond the artwork, there are other family heirlooms, letters, and clothing on display.
—Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 6 Apr. 2025
The moveable tractor coop is in the field today, and the heirloom hens are inside, fertilizing the organic soil and eating insects.
—Scott Clark As Told To Betsy Andrews, Saveur, 3 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for heirloom
Cite this Entry
“Heirloom.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/heirloom. Accessed 16 Apr. 2025.
Copy CitationKids Definition
heirloom
noun
heir·loom
ˈa(ə)r-ˌlüm 
ˈe(ə)r-
: a piece of personal property handed down from generation to generation
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