legitimize

[ li-jit-uh-mahyz ]

verb (used with object)

, le·git·i·mized, le·git·i·miz·ing.

1. to make legitimate.

legitimize

/ lɪˈdʒɪtɪˌmaɪz; lɪˈdʒɪtɪməˌtaɪz /

verb

1. tr to make legitimate; legalize

Derived Forms

• leˌgitimiˈzation, noun

Other Words From

• le·giti·mi·zation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of legitimize¹

First recorded in 1645–55; from Latin lēgitim(us) ( legitim ) + -ize

Example Sentences

If for some reason it is, the roster circumstances surrounding it will de-legitimize the outcome.

From Washington Post

At least eight Democratic senators have met with Barrett — in person or via phone — while a host of others have refused the courtesy sit-downs, saying they do not want to legitimize a confirmation process they say should not occur.

From Washington Post

It can be a tool to push back against these systems, but equally it can be a tool to normalize or legitimize these systems.

From MIT Technology Review

We’re meeting maybe to legitimize that decision or for somebody to say that was a collective decision even though it wasn’t.

From Freakonomics

We’re meeting maybe to legitimize that decision or for somebody to say that that was a collective decision even though it wasn’t.

From Freakonomics

But does simply announcing one has a story automatically legitimize its telling?

From The Daily Beast

For Easley, one of the most important steps to helping her husband was learning to legitimize her own position as a caregiver.

From The Daily Beast

The main radio station was scheduled to announce, and thereby legitimize, the fraudulent results.

From The Daily Beast

Those $2 billion have also served to legitimize the work other companies have been doing to expand the VR experience.

From The Daily Beast

Legitimize contributions of a size that virtually guarantees special attention from office-holders?

From The Daily Beast

If the woman has won you round to legitimize the connection, first, I've a proper claim to see her marriage lines.

From Project Gutenberg

No easy-going doctrines, then, to legitimize vice, says Ozanam.

From Project Gutenberg

Except as a solemn, sacred rite, there was nothing in our marriage to legitimize our child.

From Project Gutenberg

Victory would legitimize and confirm the authority of one, and make it supreme over the whole civilized world.

From Project Gutenberg

Again, after introduction to an unmarried lady at a dance, a man is required to properly legitimize the acquaintance.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• codify
• constitute
• decriminalize
• legislate
• regulate