verb

legitimize

luh-JIH-tih-myz

Legitimize (verb) means to make something officially lawful or accepted as valid. Example: “The new law legitimized same-sex marriage nationwide.”

verb

To make something officially lawful or accepted as valid.

"The new law legitimized same-sex marriage nationwide."

"Some critics say the deal simply legitimizes an unfair practice."

How to use legitimize

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo officially accept or justify something as lawful, valid, or proper.

UK vs US

British English often uses the spelling "legitimise" instead.

Common pairings

legitimize a claim legitimize power legitimize the process

Word forms

legitimized past tense, legitimizes singular

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The new law _____ same-sex marriage nationwide.

Etymology

From legitimate plus the verb-forming suffix -ize.

Synonyms

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legitimate legalize legalise legitimise legitimatize legitimatise decriminalize decriminalise

Related words

official legal honest sharp valid genuine legitimate justified

Rhymes for legitimize

size maize prize Belize utilize capsize realize baptize idolize optimize monetize colonize

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Frequently asked questions

What does “legitimize” mean?

The word “legitimize” means to make something officially lawful or accepted as valid. In plain terms, to officially accept or justify something as lawful, valid, or proper.

How do you pronounce “legitimize”?

“Legitimize” is pronounced luh-JIH-tih-myz (/ləˈd͡ʒɪtɪˌmaɪz/ in IPA).

How do you use “legitimize” in a sentence?

Here is “legitimize” used in a sentence: “The new law legitimized same-sex marriage nationwide.”

What part of speech is “legitimize”?

“Legitimize” is a verb.

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official legal honest sharp valid genuine legitimate justified