legitimity

/ˌlɛdʒɪˈtɪmɪti/; /lɛdʒɪˈtɪmɪsɪti/; /lɪdʒɪˈtɪmɪti/; /lɪdʒɪˈtɪmɪsɪti/

Definitions

1. noun

the state of being legitimate; the quality or fact of being rightful or justified

“The legitimacy of the new government was questioned by many countries.”

2. noun

the quality of being lawfully or properly constituted

“The legitimacy of the corporation was upheld by the court.”

3. noun

the quality of being morally justified or acceptable

“The legitimacy of the actions taken by the activists was debated by the media.”

4. noun

the fact of being rightful or justified in a particular context or situation

“The legitimacy of her claims to the throne was disputed by the royal family.”

Synonyms

  • justification
  • legitimacy
  • rightfulness
  • validity

Antonyms

  • illegitimacy
  • invalidity
  • unjustness