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

With a slap at the weigh-in and then a stale performance in the ring, many observers have questioned the legitimacy of the contest.

From BBC

There were question marks on the legitimacy of this fight and how seriously both men would take it, but Tyson said he "came to fight".

From BBC

And the groups gained a certain legitimacy — they were cited hundreds of times by six of the largest U.S. news outlets, including The New York Times.

From Salon

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

Related Words

• authority
• justice
• validity