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

The woman questioned the legitimacy of the message and brought it to authorities. — Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 30 Sep. 2026

Kemigisa said that Oyo left behind a young son whose identity would be unveiled at the right time, casting doubt on the legitimacy of Nyabongo and the decision of the Babiito to choose him. — ABC News, 29 Sep. 2026

That defense reflects the administration’s broader argument that its election proposals are intended to prevent fraud and protect electoral legitimacy, not undermine it. — Los Angeles Times, 23 Sep. 2026

Despite questions about the UN’s legitimacy and its increasing marginalization, Forti insists that the United Nations still matters. — Max Saltman, CNN Money, 21 Sep. 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