Legacy

Definition

Something handed down from an ancestor or a predecessor or from the past.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɛɡəsi/
• Respelling: LEG-uh-see (with "LEG" as in "peg," "uh" as in "sofa," and "see" as in "see")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɛɡəsi/
• Respelling: LEG-uh-see (with "LEG" as in "peg," "uh" as in "sofa," and "see" as in "see")

In both dialects, "legacy" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "LEG." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "LEG-uh-see."

Etymology

Derived from the Old French word "legacie", meaning "body of persons sent on a mission", and from the Medieval Latin word "legatia". It originally referred to an ambassador's office or function, then to a person's property and wealth that is passed down to a successor.

Derivatives

• Legacy system
• Legacy code
• Legacy software
• Legatee
• Legacy-free

Synonyms

• Inheritance
• Bequest
• Heritage

Antonyms

• Dispossession
• Disinheritance
• Forfeiture

Usage

The term "legacy" is commonly used in legal contexts to refer to inheritances or bequests in a will. It is also used more broadly to describe the lasting impact or influence of an individual, organization, or event.

Related Terms

• Inheritance: The practice of passing on property, titles, debts, rights, and obligations upon the death of an individual.
• Bequest: A gift of personal property by will.
• Heritage: Property that is or may be inherited; an inheritance.

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Legacy (Noun): An amount of money or property left to someone in a will.
  • Example: "She received a substantial legacy from her grandmother."

• Legacy (Noun): Something transmitted by or received from an ancestor or predecessor or from the past.
  • Example: "The cultural legacy of ancient Rome is still evident in modern architecture."

• Legacy (Noun): A lasting impact or influence.
  • Example: "His legacy as a great leader remains strong even after his death."