legitimize

verb

le·​git·​i·​mize li-ˈji-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce legitimize (audio)
legitimized; legitimizing
legitimization noun
legitimizer noun

Examples of legitimize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web All of this has the potential to legitimize these results as viable evidence for conspiracy theorists questioning the outcome of the election. Makena Kelly, WIRED, 10 Oct. 2024 Either way, the adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s novel about life in a theocratic future America was good enough to legitimize Hulu as more than a dumping ground for next-day network shows. Alex Galbraith, EW.com, 24 Sep. 2024 Now legitimized as one of country’s most distinguished hit-crafting writers – with notable covers by such other top talents as Ray Stevens, Bobby Bare, Roger Miller and Waylon Jennings to his credit – he was signed to Monument in a long-term pact. Chris Morris, Variety, 29 Sep. 2024 Demonstrating self-care and balance needs to be a priority at the top of the house for it to be legitimized throughout the organization. Expert Panel®, Forbes, 24 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for legitimize 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'legitimize.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of legitimize was in 1646

Dictionary Entries Near legitimize

Cite this Entry

“Legitimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/legitimize. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

legitimize

verb
le·​git·​i·​mize li-ˈjit-ə-ˌmīz How to pronounce legitimize (audio)
legitimized; legitimizing

Legal Definition

legitimize

transitive verb
le·​git·​i·​mize lə-ˈji-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce legitimize (audio)
legitimized; legitimizing
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!