hereditary
/həˈrɛdɪˌtɛri/
adjective
- (of a trait, disease, or condition) passed from a parent to a child through genes.
- Scientists are studying the hereditary factors that cause diabetes.
- Her curly hair is hereditary — her mother has the same curls.
- Cystic fibrosis is a hereditary disease.
- (of a title, office, or right) passed from one generation to another within a family, especially by inheritance.
- In some countries, membership in the upper house of parliament is hereditary.
- He inherited the hereditary title of duke from his father.
- The British monarchy is a hereditary system.
Antonyms