Definition

Noun: Wealth that is passed down from one generation to the next, typically from parents or ancestors, rather than being acquired through one's own work, effort, or enterprise.

Usage

This term is used to describe assets, money, or property received through inheritance. It often carries connotations related to social class, economic privilege, and discussions about inequality. - The foundation of his fortune was inherited wealth, not personal business success. - She lives comfortably on her inherited wealth and does not need to work. - Debates about taxation frequently focus on inherited wealth.

Advanced Usage

• "Old money": A related informal term referring to families who have possessed inherited wealth for multiple generations, often associated with established social status.
  • The neighborhood is full of families with old money, their inherited wealth dating back a century.

Variants and Related Words

• Inheritance (n): The act of receiving or the property/asset that is received.
  • He received a large inheritance from his aunt.
• Heir (n): A person legally entitled to receive an inheritance.
  • The heir to a vast fortune.
• Legacy (n): Something handed down from the past, which can include money, property, or a non-material thing like a reputation.
  • She left a legacy of both philanthropic ideals and substantial inherited wealth.

Synonyms

• Family fortune
• Patrimony (especially wealth inherited from one's father or ancestors)
• Unearned wealth

Antonyms

• Earned income
• Self-made wealth
• Acquired assets

Noun

1. wealth that is inherited rather than earned