legitimize

verb

le·​git·​i·​mize li-ˈji-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce legitimize (audio)
legitimized; legitimizing
legitimization noun
legitimizer noun

Examples of legitimize in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The comments come as Donald Trump’s incoming administration is expected to take steps to legitimize digital assets. Rocio Fabbro, Quartz, 4 Dec. 2024 His imminent return will likely move St. Juste to the bench, but he’ll be tasked with elevating their secondary in order for Washington’s postseason chances to be legitimized. Kambui Bomani, Forbes, 27 Nov. 2024 Still, there is opportunity for this group to continue to legitimize its early-season performance with a strong night against the suddenly struggling champs. Jonas Siegel, The Athletic, 25 Nov. 2024 Lawyers and scholars would pass judgment, and cross-partisan pro-democracy coalitions would need to emerge to support and legitimize the states’ contentious actions. Jenna Bednar, Foreign Affairs, 5 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for legitimize 

Word History

First Known Use

1646, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of legitimize was in 1646

Dictionary Entries Near legitimize

Cite this Entry

“Legitimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/legitimize. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

legitimize

verb
le·​git·​i·​mize li-ˈjit-ə-ˌmīz How to pronounce legitimize (audio)
legitimized; legitimizing

Legal Definition

legitimize

transitive verb
le·​git·​i·​mize lə-ˈji-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce legitimize (audio)
legitimized; legitimizing
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