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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Both serve the same function: Such large-scale institutional investment in crypto—whether from the government or a company—further legitimizes these digital currencies, ensuring their long-term viability as an asset class. Will Gottsegen, The Atlantic, 10 June 2025 Management also added veteran talent to legitimize the Fever as a true contender. Doug Kezirian, New York Times, 16 May 2025 Obama’s singular goal was to ink something that could be called a nuclear deal, even one that legitimized Iran’s uranium enrichment and missile program. The Editors, National Review, 8 May 2025 Trump seems to operate on the theory, though, that powers seized and not firmly resisted somehow become legitimized. Thomas Elias, Mercury News, 7 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for legitimize

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of legitimize was in 1646

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Legitimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/legitimize. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on legitimize

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