legitimacy

noun

le·​git·​i·​ma·​cy li-ˈji-tə-mə-sē How to pronounce legitimacy (audio)
Synonyms of legitimacynext
: the quality or state of being legitimate

Synonyms of legitimacy

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Examples of legitimacy in a Sentence

the legitimacy of the military dictatorship was not recognized by most other nations
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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.
Whatever the merits of Fedorov’s arguments, the move potentially presents a fresh talking point to Putin, who has publicly and repeatedly cast doubt on Zelensky’s legitimacy as president. — Nathan Hodge, CNN Money, 23 Aug. 2026 The legitimacy of that referendum petition was not challenged in court. — David A. Lieb, Los Angeles Times, 20 Aug. 2026 Executives used a White House event to lobby for legislation that may lend greater legitimacy to the growing industry — one that has made Trump more than $1 billion. — Cat Zakrzewski, Washington Post, 19 Aug. 2026 More than 60,000 residents participated, and roughly 90 percent voted in favor of ending the concession, giving the movement greater political legitimacy even though the referendum carried no legal authority. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for legitimacy

Word History

First Known Use

1625, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of legitimacy was in 1625

Rhymes for legitimacy

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Browse Nearby Words

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legitimacy
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Cite this Entry

“Legitimacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/legitimacy. Accessed 25 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

legitimacy

noun
le·​git·​i·​ma·​cy li-ˈjit-ə-mə-sē How to pronounce legitimacy (audio)
: the quality or state of being legitimate

Legal Definition

legitimacy

noun
le·​git·​i·​ma·​cy li-ˈji-tə-mə-sē How to pronounce legitimacy (audio)
: the quality or state of being legitimate

More from Merriam-Webster on legitimacy

Nglish: Translation of legitimacy for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about legitimacy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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