Pronunciation: [dˌɪsɪnhˈɛɹɪt] (IPA) 
Disinherit is spelled /dɪsɪnˈhɛrɪt/, where the first syllable is pronounced with a short "i" sound (as in "sit"), followed by the "s" sound and an "ih" sound. The "n" is pronounced normally, followed by a stressed "heir" sound and ending with the "it" sound. Disinherit means to exclude someone from inheriting something, usually property or money, typically by updating a will to remove them as a beneficiary.
Disinherit is a transitive verb that refers to the act of deliberately excluding or depriving someone from inheriting one's possessions, property, or assets that would have otherwise been rightfully passed down to them after one's death. It is a legal term used to describe the intentional disqualification or exclusion of an individual from the entitlement of inheritance that they would generally have a right to under laws of succession or if they were a named beneficiary in the deceased's will.
To disinherit someone, a person must manifest their clear intention to exclude the individual in question from inheriting through a valid legal instrument such as a last will and testament. This act of disinheritance may be motivated by various reasons, such as a strained relationship, dissatisfaction with the person's behavior or actions, or a desire to redistribute assets in a different manner.
However, it is important to note that laws regarding disinheritance can vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. In some jurisdictions, there are certain limitations or protections in place that prevent complete disinheritance of certain individuals, such as spouses or minor children, ensuring they are provided with a minimum share or allowance.
Overall, disinherit is a term used to describe the intentional act of removing someone from the line of succession or inheritance, exercising the testator's or decedent's right to determine the distribution of their estate.
To cut off from an inheritance; to deprive of hereditary right.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "disinherit" is derived from the combination of two Latin roots: "dis-" and "hereditare".
The prefix "dis-" comes from the Latin word "dis", meaning "apart" or "away from". It is used to negate or reverse the meaning of the word it is attached to.
The root "hereditare" is derived from the Latin noun "hereditas", meaning "inheritance" or "heir". The verb "hereditare" means "to inherit" or "to bequeath".
Therefore, "disinherit" is a compound word where "dis-" negates the concept of inheritance, and "inherit" is related to obtaining or receiving property or possessions from someone after their death.
