legitimize

verb

le·​git·​i·​mize li-ˈji-tə-ˌmīz 

legitimized; legitimizing

transitive verb

: to make legitimate : legitimate

legitimization

li-ˌji-tə-mə-ˈzā-shən 

noun

legitimizer

li-ˈji-tə-ˌmī-zər 

noun

Examples of legitimize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Kremlin wants the parliamentary election — the first since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 — to showcase popular support for the war and legitimize its action. — ABC News, 20 Sep. 2026

Kremlin expected to keep control The Kremlin wants the parliamentary election — the first since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 — to showcase popular support for the war and legitimize its action. — Los Angeles Times, 20 Sep. 2026

That means if Russia was to undergo a profound political transformation during the next five years, the Duma will play a major role in managing and legitimizing it. — Sam Meredith,anniek Bao, CNBC, 17 Sep. 2026

On paper, Daphne and Eddie’s relationship was brief and lacked the connective tissue (DNA, legal documents) that might otherwise legitimize it. — Literary Hub, 10 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for legitimize

• actualize
• antagonize
• apologise
• apologize
• capitalize
• categorize
• characterize
• commercialize
• conceptualize
• contrariwise
• criminalize
• decentralize

Kids Definition

legitimize

verb

le·​git·​i·​mize li-ˈjit-ə-ˌmīz 

legitimized; legitimizing

: legitimate entry 2

Legal Definition

legitimize

transitive verb

le·​git·​i·​mize lə-ˈji-tə-ˌmīz 

legitimized; legitimizing

: legalize, legitimate