An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

The passing on of physical or mental characteristics genetically from one generation to another (OxfordDictionaries.com).

Etymology (EN): M.E., from M.Fr. hérédité, from O.Fr. eredite “inheritance, legacy,” from L. hereditatem (nominative hereditas) “heirship, inheritance,” → heritage.

Etymology (PE): Rigandâšt, literally “possessing heritage,” from rigan, → heritage, + dâšt past stem of dâštan “to have, hold, possess, maintain,” → property.