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. 3. A right or estate inherited from one’s ancestors, particularly from direct male ancestors.