LEGITIMIZE Synonyms: 40 Similar and Opposite Words

legitimize

verb

Definition of legitimize

as in to enable

to make something real, accepted, or official slang words legitimized by usage

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of legitimize But critics fear the FDA’s stamp of approval will simply legitimize the use of unproven substances whose dangers may only become apparent in coming years. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 20 July 2026 There is no formal consensus, however, and no faction willing to move first on anything that could be portrayed as surrendering leverage, legitimizing the bombing campaign, or handing Trump a clear victory. — Sanam Vakil, Time, 16 July 2026 Peptide proponents like Rosebush counter that pharmaceutical companies have no interest in running the kind of costly studies on these peptides that are needed to legitimize them because many of them can't be patented. — Will Stone, NPR, 8 July 2026 Yet this argument requires senators to actively affirm Blanche, which would legitimize his naked corruption of the law. — Jonathan Chait, The Atlantic, 26 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for legitimize

Recent Examples of Synonyms for legitimize

Verb

These impersonators and scammers tie into a broader issue regarding how AI-generation tools are being used to enable cybercriminals.

— Alyssa Goldberg, USA Today, 3 Aug. 2026
This combination enables more precise foot placement, improved balance, and smoother movement across challenging surfaces.

— Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of enable

Verb

The Saudis, according to the person briefed on the substance of the call but not authorized to comment publicly, are concerned that Tehran could respond with attacks on the energy infrastructure of the kingdom and other Gulf countries.

— ABC News, ABC News, 2 Aug. 2026
The source said Twins chairman Tom Pohlad has authorized general manager Jeremy Zoll to add even more payroll if necessary.

— Dan Hayes, New York Times, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of authorize

Verb

In 2026, ideas are easy to validate, software is cheap to build, and a single high-agency founder with taste can move rapidly with capabilities that once required a funded team.

— Michael Wee, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026
As per a press release, initial projects in the CRADA will include advancing tritium capabilities, increasing the yield of neutrons in pulsed fusion generators, and validating next-generation fusion technologies.

— Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of validate

Verb

And the fact that Pochettino’s contract is so close to expiring was only going to add to this type of rumor mill — and to legitimate interest and recruitment.

— Paul Tenorio, New York Times, 29 May 2026
For schools, one bill would limit the use of student biometric data to legitimate instructional purposes, while another would prohibit teachers from using AI to assign grades on student work.

— Jeremy Gorner, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2026

Definition of legitimate

Verb

Radar then scans across 14 federal and state programs to identify benefits users may qualify for, from disability and food assistance to tax credits.

— Victor Dey, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026
To qualify as a qualifying relative, the individual’s gross income must be less than $5,300 for 2026.

— Nancy Ashburn, Encyclopedia Britannica, 6 Aug. 2026

Definition of qualify

Verb

Taillon has coughed up 25 home runs in 15 starts this season, allowing five in his previous two starts, ceding at least one in 12 turns and permitting multiple blasts in eight starts.

— Josh Shepardson, Forbes.com, 5 Aug. 2026
Officials confirmed that the party was not permitted or sanctioned, and that the property owner was unaware that the field was being used for an event.

— Robert Salonga, Mercury News, 5 Aug. 2026