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 Allure legitimized it with a fun video, and Cosmo cosigned the trend as well. Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 24 Sep. 2024 The win legitimized Dubois’ title distinction and improved his record to 22-2 with 21 KO. Brian Mazique, Forbes, 21 Sep. 2024 By accepting money from fossil fuel companies, sports organizations legitimize their actions in the eyes of their supporters, thereby perpetuating the climate crisis. Vitas Carosella, Forbes, 18 Sep. 2024 Thus, settlers legitimized their cause by portraying themselves as followers of Israel’s founding fathers. Arie Perliger, The Conversation, 18 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 7 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
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