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
1
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 notesIn 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
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- legitimizes
- Past tense
- legitimized
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The new law _____ same-sex marriage nationwide.
Etymology
From legitimate plus the verb-forming suffix -ize.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for legitimize
See all rhymes for legitimize →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.
