# heirloom

/ˈɛɹˌɫum/ (US) · /ˈeəluːm/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/heirloom
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 2. traditional plant variety

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a type of vegetable or fruit that has been grown for many years from the same seeds, rather than a modern factory version.

For teachers: a traditional variety of a plant or crop that is not used in modern large-scale agriculture and is often maintained by private gardeners.

- She prefers growing heirloom tomatoes because they have much more flavour than the ones in the supermarket.
- The community garden specialises in heirloom varieties of maize and squash that were originally cultivated by indigenous farmers in the region.

Usage: Often used as a noun adjunct before the name of a vegetable, such as 'heirloom carrots' or 'heirloom seeds'.

## Examples

- She planted an heirloom tomato in her garden this year.
- Many gardeners prefer heirloom varieties because they offer unique flavors and colors that modern hybrids often lack.
- The preservation of heirloom seeds is vital for maintaining agricultural biodiversity and protecting the genetic heritage of crops that have sustained human populations for centuries.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.