Subject: What does heritability mean in words that a lay person can understand.

I have read definitions of "heritability" and have seen it used in books 
and newspapers, but the precise definition eludes me.  I understand that  
heritable is a statistical term and refers to traits with genetic and 
environmental causes, but how do you interpret a statement such as "The 
heritability of this trait is 48%"?  Please give an explanation that a non-
scientist can understand.   

Re: What does heritability mean in words that a lay person can understand.