Estate

Definition

Estate is a noun that refers to a large piece of land with an impressive residence, or the total assets and liabilities of an individual, especially after their death. It can also mean a specific class or rank in society.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈsteɪt/
• Respelling: ih-STAYT

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ɪˈsteɪt/
• Respelling: ih-STAYT

Etymology

The word "estate" originates from the Latin "status," meaning "state" or "condition." It evolved through Old French as "estat," referring to a person's status or property, and entered Middle English with meanings associated with social rank and property ownership.

Derivatives

• Estates (plural noun)
• Estate agent (noun)
• Real estate (noun)
• Estated (adjective, rare)
• Estate planning (noun)

Synonyms

• Property
• Assets
• Holdings

Antonyms

• Debt
• Liability
• None

Usage

The noun "estate" is commonly used to refer to land, assets, or property ownership, often in legal or financial contexts. For example, "She inherited the family estate." It can also mean an individual’s possessions upon death or be used in real estate contexts.

Related Terms

• Inheritance: Property or assets passed down after someone’s death.
• Landholding: A piece of land owned or controlled by an individual.
• Property: Something owned, including land, buildings, or personal possessions.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A large piece of land with an impressive residence: Refers to an extensive area of land, often with a grand house, usually belonging to a wealthy individual.
  • Example: "The family’s country estate included gardens and a lake."
• The total assets and liabilities of an individual, especially after their death: Refers to a person’s property, money, and possessions.
  • Example: "Her estate was divided among her children."
• A specific social rank or class: Historically used to refer to different societal classes, such as the nobility or clergy.
  • Example: "The third estate represented the common people."