1. property inherited from one’s father or ancestors; an inheritance
Usage: formal
2. something regarded as a heritage to be passed down
Usage: formal

Examples

• The ancient families guarded their patrimonies carefully.
• He squandered the patrimony his grandfather had built over decades.
• The cultural patrimonies of the region include historic buildings and traditions.
• Many noble houses lost their patrimonies during the revolution.
• The museum preserves the artistic patrimonies of local communities.
• Legal disputes often arise over the division of patrimonies among heirs.