heritably

Heritably is an adverb used to describe attributes or processes that can be inherited. In biology, it pertains to traits whose variation is transmitted from parents to offspring due to genetic factors, and, in broader discussions, to rights, properties, or practices that may pass through inheritance or tradition. The term is relatively rare compared with the more common adjective forms heritable and hereditary, and with related nouns such as heredity and inheritance.

Etymology and form: Heritably is formed from the adjective heritable, which derives from Latin roots related to heirs and inheritance, with the standard English -ly suffix to create an adverb. The word signals the manner in which something is transmissible across generations.

Usage and context: In scholarly writing, heritably is used to emphasize that a trait or process can be passed down through generations. It is most commonly encountered in genetics, evolutionary biology, and anthropology. When possible, writers may opt for the adjective form (heritable) or the nouns and adjectives related to inheritance (heredity, hereditary, inheritance) and use adverbs such as heritably or hereditarily to describe the mode of transmission.

See also: heritable, hereditary, heredity, inheritance, heir, lineage.