— patrimonial , adj. — patrimonially , adv.
/pa"treuh moh'nee/ , n. , pl. patrimonies .
1. an estate inherited from one's father or ancestors.
2. any quality, characteristic, etc., that is inherited; heritage.
3. the aggregate of one's property.
4. the estate or endowment of a church, religious house, etc.
[ 1300-50; ME patrimonie patrimonium. See PATRI-, -MONY ]
Syn. 1. inheritance.