Patrimony

PATRIMONY. Patrimony is sometimes understood to mean all kinds of property but its more limited signification, includes only such estate, as has descended in the same family and in a still more confined sense, it is only that which has descended or been devised in a direct line from the father, and by extension, from the mother, or other ancestor.
     2. By patrimony, patrimonium, is also understood the father's duty to take care of his children. Sw. pt. 3, Sec. 18, n. 31, p. 235.