What does legacy mean?
A legacy is something passed on from one person, generation, or system to another. It may refer to money or property inherited under a will, but the word is more commonly used for the lasting influence, traditions, achievements, or reputation left by an individual or institution. In technology and business, a legacy system is an older system that remains in use, often because replacing it would be costly or disruptive. A legacy can therefore be positive, as in a person's important contributions, or neutral, as in inherited software. The word also appears in phrases such as “a legacy of innovation” and “leave a legacy,” where it emphasizes an effect that endures beyond the person or period responsible for it. Overall, legacy describes the continuing presence of the past in the present.
Something inherited, bequeathed, or left behind, especially a possession, tradition, achievement, or lasting influence.
"The foundation created as a legacy to future generations."
In modern usage, the word often carries the sense of a lasting contribution or influence rather than merely a legal inheritance.
Relating to or inherited from an earlier period, system, or body of work; often retained despite newer alternatives.
"The company is gradually replacing its legacy database."
This is chiefly an attributive use, as in “legacy system,” “legacy software,” and “legacy content.”
The usual plural is “legacies,” used for multiple inherited possessions, traditions, influences, or contributions.
"The two families preserve different legacies of craftsmanship."
A legacy is not simply the past: it is the part of the past that continues to shape what comes next.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does legacy come from?
The word comes through Old French from Latin legātia, meaning a bequest or inheritance, derived from legāre, “to bequeath.” Its earliest sense referred to money or property left in a will. Over time, the word broadened to include enduring traditions, achievements, institutions, and influences.
Related word forms
How legacy is actually used
The word is common in formal and professional contexts, especially in discussions of institutions, technology, history, and reputation. In technology, it often implies that something is old, difficult to maintain, or retained for compatibility; the term is usually neutral rather than automatically negative.