disinherit: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1formal, legal
Quick answer
What does “disinherit” mean?
To prevent someone, usually one's child, from inheriting one's property or title through a legal will or other official act.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To prevent someone, usually one's child, from inheriting one's property or title through a legal will or other official act.
To deprive someone of a right, privilege, or expected possession, often as a form of punishment or exclusion. Can be used metaphorically to describe being excluded from a cultural, social, or ideological legacy.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in legal meaning or usage. The process and legal documents involved (e.g., 'will' vs. 'testament') are jurisdiction-specific, but the verb is used identically.
Connotations
Equally strong and formal in both varieties. Associated with family conflict, wealth, and traditional inheritance structures.
Frequency
Low frequency in everyday speech in both regions, but standard in legal and formal contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “disinherit” in a Sentence
disinherit [SOMEONE]disinherit [SOMEONE] from [SOMETHING]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “disinherit” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The earl chose to disinherit his eldest son after the scandal.
- She amended her will to disinherit her former business partner.
American English
- He threatened to disinherit his kids if they didn't join the family firm.
- The clause effectively disinherits any heir who contests the will.
adverb
British English
- Not applicable/standard usage.
American English
- Not applicable/standard usage.
adjective
British English
- The disinherited prince sought his fortune abroad.
- A disinheriting clause must be very clearly worded.
American English
- The disinherited heir filed a lawsuit against the estate.
- Her disinheriting action caused a permanent family rift.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in discussions of family business succession planning: 'The founder threatened to disinherit his son from the company shares.'
Academic
Used in historical, sociological, or legal studies discussing property rights and family dynamics.
Everyday
Very rare in casual conversation. Used when discussing dramatic family news or storytelling: 'After the huge argument, she said she'd disinherit him.'
Technical
Core term in legal contexts (probate, estate planning). Precise meaning related to testamentary capacity and will provisions.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “disinherit”
- Using it without a direct object (incorrect: 'He decided to disinherit.' Correct: 'He decided to disinherit his daughter.'). Confusing with 'disown', which is broader (can be social/emotional, not just legal).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, no. 'Disinherit' is an intentional act typically executed through a legal document like a will or trust. Without such instructions, laws of intestacy usually dictate inheritance.
No, while most common with children, you can disinherit any potential heir, including a spouse, sibling, or other relative, subject to local laws which may protect certain heirs.
'Disinherit' is specifically legal/financial, relating to inheritance. 'Disown' is broader, meaning to reject and sever all family connections, which may include disinheriting but also emotional and social rejection.
Yes, as long as the person making the will is mentally competent, they can change their will again to reinstate an heir. After death, it is very difficult to reverse unless the will is successfully challenged in court.
To prevent someone, usually one's child, from inheriting one's property or title through a legal will or other official act.
Disinherit is usually formal, legal in register.
Disinherit: in British English it is pronounced /ˌdɪsɪnˈhɛrɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌdɪsɪnˈhɛrɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Cut someone out of the will (near synonym for the action)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: DIS + INHERIT. You are taking the INHERITance away, doing the DISopposite of letting someone inherit.
Conceptual Metaphor
INHERITANCE IS A FLOW/LEGACY; TO DISINHERIT IS TO DAM/BLOCK THAT FLOW. FAMILY IS A LINE/CONTINUITY; TO DISINHERIT IS TO SEVER/CUT THE LINE.
Practice
Quiz
What is the PRIMARY context for the verb 'to disinherit'?