legitimize

verb

le·​git·​i·​mize li-ˈji-tə-ˌmīz How to pronounce legitimize (audio)
legitimized; legitimizing
Synonyms of legitimizenext

transitive verb

: to make legitimate : legitimate
legitimization
li-ˌji-tə-mə-ˈzā-shən How to pronounce legitimize (audio)
noun
legitimizer
li-ˈji-tə-ˌmī-zər How to pronounce legitimize (audio)
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.
By validating transactions within the blockchain database, these investors legitimize the currency for its user base. — Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 18 Mar. 2025 Simply put, what this meant was that the ruler of the empire legitimized his reign through Buddhism, portraying himself either as a Buddha or as a patron of Buddhists – their texts and institutions. — Stephanie Balkwill, The Conversation, 17 Mar. 2025 The Tesla owner legitimized the story to his millions of followers, prompting many supporters to comment on Edebiri. — Armando Tinoco, Deadline, 12 Mar. 2025 Trump hasn’t merely ‘legitimized’ the crypto industry, but has finally spelled out to the world what is overwhelmingly the most important part of this asset class. — Edan Yago, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 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

Rhymes for legitimize

See All Rhymes for legitimize

Browse Nearby Words

legitimism
legitimize
legits
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Legitimize.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/legitimize. Accessed 30 Mar. 2025.

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Kids Definition

legitimize

verb
le·​git·​i·​mize li-ˈjit-ə-ˌmīz How to pronounce legitimize (audio)
legitimized; legitimizing
: legitimate entry 2

Legal Definition

legitimize

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

More from Merriam-Webster on legitimize

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for legitimize

Nglish: Translation of legitimize for Spanish Speakers

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