1. transmitted genetically: passed genetically, or capable of being passed genetically, from one generation to the next
2. handed down through generations: handed down, or legally capable of being handed down, through generations by inheritance
3. having inherited status: holding a right, function, or property by right of inheritance
4. traditionally held: possessed by or characteristic of both ancestors and descendants although not physically transmitted the family's hereditary fondness for city life
5. relating to inheritance: relating to inheritance or heredity
6. mathematics logic sharing relationship or property: sharing or transmitting a relationship or property
[15th century. < Latin hereditarius< hereditas "inheritance" (see heredity)]
