Definition of legalitynext
as in legitimacy
the quality or state of being legal the senator questioned the legality of the proposed surveillance operation

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 legality The discussion came after the commission went into closed session to discuss the legalities of the site plan and data center. Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 5 Aug. 2026 There are also some questions about the legality of classifying current and future Florida homeowners differently. Abigail Hall, The Conversation, 30 July 2026 Orange County has had more than 100 football players transferring to different schools this offseason, and policing the legality of the transfers seems almost impossible. Chris Hays, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 July 2026 The federal government has also questioned the legality and safety of cannabinoid ingredients used in food. Noel Burgess, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for legality
Recent Examples of Synonyms for legality
legitimacy
Noun
  • Some interaction with the Taliban may be unavoidable, but foreign governments should not take steps that confer legitimacy on the regime, which would only embolden the group to deepen its repression at home.
    Rina Amiri, Foreign Affairs, 14 Aug. 2026
  • These dynamics have given transphobic claims a veneer of legitimacy under the guise of protecting women and children.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 Aug. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Legality.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/legality. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on legality

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!