legitimacy

[ li-jit-uh-muh-see ]

noun

1. the state or quality of being legitimate.

   Synonyms: rightfulness, lawfulness, legality

Other Words From

• nonle·giti·ma·cy noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of legitimacy¹

First recorded in 1685–95; legitim(ate) + -acy

Example Sentences

The IOC questioned the legitimacy and credibility of the IBA's tests, saying they could not be relied upon.

From BBC

The stage was set for the Rams to prove their championship legitimacy … yet they didn’t show.

From Los Angeles Times

"This resolution, taken outside any legal and constitutional framework, raises serious concerns about its legitimacy," Conille's letter was quoted as saying.

From BBC

“Influence actors linked to Russia in particular are manufacturing videos and creating fake articles to undermine the legitimacy of the election, instill fear in voters regarding the election process, and suggest Americans are using violence against each other due to political preferences.”

From Los Angeles Times

Zackary Okun Dunivin, a computational methodologist and cultural sociologist, said he dug into the data for one reason: He didn’t think the legitimacy of the 27 Club should be dismissed out of hand simply because it lacked statistical support.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• authority
• justice
• validity