Meaning & use

Disinheritance

noun·Advanced

Last updated

The act of depriving someone, typically an heir, of an inheritance they would otherwise have received.

See it in a sentence

The disinheritance of the eldest son shocked the entire family after the will was read.

Estate lawyers often advise clients on how to word a disinheritance clause to avoid legal challenges.

A note on using this word

In many jurisdictions, disinheritance of a spouse or child is legally restricted, since certain family members are entitled to a minimum share of an estate.

Words with a similar meaning

exclusioncutting off

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Words with an opposite meaning

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