heritage-style
|her-i-tage-style|
/ˈhɛrɪtɪdʒ staɪl/
traditional/historic appearance
Etymology
'heritage-style' is a modern English compound formed from 'heritage' + 'style'. 'heritage' originates from Old French 'eritage', from Latin 'hereditas' (from 'heres' meaning 'heir'), and 'style' originates from Latin 'stilus' meaning 'writing instrument' (via Old French 'style').
'heritage' came into English via Old French 'eritage' and Latin 'hereditas'; over time its sense broadened from literal 'inherited property' to include 'cultural inheritance' or 'tradition'. 'style' evolved from Latin 'stilus' (a writing tool) into Old French 'style' and then into English, shifting to mean 'manner, mode, or design'. The compound 'heritage-style' is a recent coinage combining these established words to label a historically inspired design approach.
Initially, 'heritage' primarily meant 'inheritance' (property passed to an heir), but its meaning shifted toward 'cultural inheritance' or 'tradition'. 'Style' originally referred to a writing implement and later to a manner or design; together, the compound now specifically denotes designs that reference or evoke the past.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a design or aesthetic that intentionally uses or imitates elements from the past (often architecture, fashion, or decorative arts) to evoke historical character.
The new housing development features several heritage-style homes that match the town's historic center.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Adjective 1
resembling or done in the manner of traditional or historically influenced styles; made to look like or evoke heritage.
They installed heritage-style street lamps to preserve the character of the neighborhood.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/09/13 01:10