Legitimate Meaning

Meaning of Word

Legitimate refers to something that is lawful, valid, or authorized by established rules, laws, or standards. It can also describe something that is reasonable, justifiable, or in accordance with accepted principles.

Definitions and Meaning in English

Conforming to the law or rules; lawful or authorized.
Valid, recognized, or accepted as right or proper.
Justifiable or reasonable based on the circumstances.
Born to legally married parents, or in accordance with marriage laws (in the context of family or inheritance).

History and Origin

The word legitimate comes from the Latin legitimus, meaning “lawful, in accordance with the law,” which is derived from lex (law). It entered the English language in the early 15th century, initially used to describe something lawful or authorized by law.

Over time, the meaning expanded beyond legal contexts to encompass anything considered proper, reasonable, or justified according to societal norms or accepted standards.

Detailed Explanation

The term legitimate is primarily used in a legal or moral context to describe actions, claims, or entities that are recognized as being lawful, valid, or appropriate. It is often used to contrast with illegitimate, which refers to something that is not authorized, valid, or in accordance with established rules.

Legitimate actions are those that are performed in accordance with the law or ethical standards, such as legitimate business practices or legitimate government authority.
Legitimate claims are those that have a valid basis, supported by evidence, law, or reason.
Legitimate children are those born within a legal marriage, as opposed to children born out of wedlock (historically referred to as illegitimate).
In broader, non-legal contexts, legitimate can also describe something that is justified or sensible, such as a legitimate reason for being late or a legitimate concern over a decision.

Example Sentences

His actions were deemed legitimate by the court, as they were in compliance with the law.
The company operates within the legitimate boundaries of the industry’s regulations.
She had a legitimate excuse for missing the meeting due to a family emergency.
They questioned the legitimacy of the contract, believing it to be fraudulent.
The king’s claim to the throne was legitimate, as he was the rightful heir.
The police officer acted in a legitimate manner when arresting the suspect.
It’s a legitimate concern that the new policy may lead to increased costs.
The child’s inheritance was confirmed as legitimate after reviewing the marriage records.
His complaint was legitimate, as it was based on factual evidence.

Synonyms with Short Explanation

Lawful – In accordance with the law; authorized by legal authority.
Valid – Having legal force or authority; acceptable and justifiable.
Authorized – Given official permission or approval, recognized as legitimate.
Justifiable – Capable of being defended or supported by valid reasoning or evidence.
Genuine – Real, authentic, or sincere, often used to indicate legitimacy in terms of authenticity.

Related Words with Short Explanation

Legal – Pertaining to the law; something that is permitted or authorized by law, similar to legitimate.
Recognition – The acknowledgment of something as valid or legitimate by an authority.
Rightful – Justly entitled, often used in contexts where legitimacy is established (e.g., rightful heir).
Ethical – In accordance with moral principles, often used to determine the legitimacy of actions.
Authentic – Genuine and real, suggesting legitimacy in the context of authenticity.

More Matches with Short Explanation

Illegitimate – Not in accordance with the law, authority, or accepted standards, the opposite of legitimate.
Authorized – Given permission or official recognition, often used as a synonym for legitimate in official contexts.
Certified – Officially recognized as legitimate through certification or validation.
Approved – Accepted or officially endorsed as legitimate by a recognized authority.
Conventional – Following accepted practices or standards, which can be seen as legitimate in certain contexts.

Antonyms

Illegitimate – Not authorized by law or accepted standards; not valid.
Fraudulent – Deceptive or dishonest, not legitimate in terms of authenticity or legality.
Unlawful – Not in accordance with the law, opposite of legitimate in a legal sense.
Unauthorized – Not permitted by an authority, opposite of legitimate in an official context.
Invalid – Not supported by law or reason, the opposite of legitimate in terms of being recognized or justified.