noun

1. A hereditary ruler; a hereditary peer in the House of Lords.

adjective

1. Passed on as an inheritance, by last will or intestate.

2. Of a title, honor or right: legally granted to somebody's descendant after that person's death.

   “Duke is a hereditary title which was created in Norman times.”

3. Of a person: holding a legally hereditary title or rank.

   “hereditary rulers”

Synonyms: inhereditary