Definition

Noun: 1. A gift of personal property left to someone through a legal will: A "bequest" is something, typically money or personal possessions, that a person formally arranges to give to another person or organization after their death, as specified in their last will and testament. 2. The act of leaving such a gift: "Bequest" can also refer to the act or process of leaving property by a will.

Examples of Usage

• As a gift of property:
  • Her will included a bequest of $10,000 to the local animal shelter.
  • The museum's new wing was funded by a generous bequest from a former patron.
  • He received a small bequest of his grandfather's books and medals.

Advanced Usage

• Specific types of bequests:
  • Specific bequest: A gift of a particular, identified item (e.g., "my gold watch to my son").
  • General bequest: A gift of a specified amount of money or quantity of goods from the general estate (e.g., "$5,000 to my niece").
  • Residuary bequest: A gift of whatever remains of the estate after all debts, taxes, and other bequests have been paid.

Variants and Related Words

• Bequeath (verb): The action of leaving personal property to someone through a will.
  • She bequeathed her entire art collection to the national gallery.

Synonyms

• Legacy: Often used interchangeably with "bequest," though "legacy" can have a broader meaning, including non-material things like ideas or traditions passed down.
• Inheritance: A more general term for property received from someone who has died, which may or may not come from a will.
• Devise (noun, legal): Specifically refers to a gift of real estate (land or buildings) by will, whereas "bequest" typically refers to personal property.

Related Phrases

• To make a bequest: To include a gift in one's will.
  • Many people choose to make a bequest to their favorite charity.
• To receive a bequest: To be given something through a will.
  • She received a bequest from a distant relative.

Noun

1. (law) a gift of personal property by will