legitimacy

noun

le·​git·​i·​ma·​cy li-ˈji-tə-mə-sē 

: the quality or state of being legitimate

Synonyms of legitimacy

• lawfulness
• legality

Examples of legitimacy in a Sentence

the legitimacy of the military dictatorship was not recognized by most other nations

Recent Examples on the Web

At the time, Sheriff Nanos questioned the third letter's legitimacy. — Kathleen Perricone, Entertainment Weekly, 2 July 2026

Of course, the internet being the internet, there is a loud contingent that doubts Lefty’s legitimacy. — Marissa R. Moss, Rolling Stone, 29 June 2026

But when ballots counted after Election Day affect the outcome of a race, that can raise doubts about their legitimacy even when there is no fraud, critics argue. — Maureen Groppe, USA Today, 29 June 2026

If a person who claims to be a part of a government agency or any other official entity sends you documents, call that agency to verify the legitimacy of the information. — Ella Moore july 2, Miami Herald, 2 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for legitimacy

• illegitimacy

Kids Definition

legitimacy

noun

le·​git·​i·​ma·​cy li-ˈjit-ə-mə-sē 

: the quality or state of being legitimate

Legal Definition

legitimacy

noun

le·​git·​i·​ma·​cy li-ˈji-tə-mə-sē 

: the quality or state of being legitimate