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
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.
The parallels helped establish esports’ legitimacy and gave non-gamers a familiar framework for understanding the competition. — Erica D. Henn, The Conversation, 28 Aug. 2026 Both sides are waging a narrative war to compete for international legitimacy, hoping to boost their own material and diplomatic support. — Mat Nashed, Christian Science Monitor, 27 Aug. 2026 At this point, no outcome will have any legitimacy without full transparency and accountability. — Joe Ferguson, Chicago Tribune, 25 Aug. 2026 Coups were short-term fixes that gradually eroded the legitimacy of the establishment. — Duncan McCargo, Foreign Affairs, 24 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

legitim
legitimacy
legitimate
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Cite this Entry

“Legitimacy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/legitimacy. Accessed 2 Sep. 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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about legitimacy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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