legitimate

[li-jit-uh-mit, li-jit-uh-meyt] / lɪˈdʒɪt ə mɪt, lɪˈdʒɪt əˌmeɪt /

ADJECTIVE

authentic, valid, legal

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appropriate certain consistent correct fair genuine justifiable lawful logical natural normal proper real reasonable reliable rightful sensible statutory true well-founded

STRONG

accepted accredited acknowledged authorized good-faith received recognized sanctioned sound warranted

WEAK

admissible canonical cogent customary innocent just licit official on the level on the up and up orthodox probable regular sure typical usual verifiable

Antonyms

STRONGEST

abnormal affected counterfeit deceptive dishonest false illegal illegitimate improper incorrect invalid irrational irregular uncommon unconventional unfitting unreal unreasonable unreliable unsuitable untrustworthy

WEAK

unlawful unwarranted

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

An Amazon Fire Stick is a device that plugs into TVs and gives the viewer options to watch programmes from legitimate services including the BBC iPlayer and Netflix.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

At the same time, there is no question that Antonelli has raised his level significantly this year, is living up to the potential Mercedes have long seen in him, and is a legitimate championship leader.

From BBC • Jun. 2, 2026

In response to Sejourne's comments, foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning warned China "will take all necessary measures" to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests.

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

Don’t call the number provided in the message, even if it appears legitimate.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

Mr. Ali’s idea to do this had been a legitimate idea, though at first I hadn’t been too sure.

From "The Stars Beneath Our Feet" by David Barclay Moore

Vocabulary lists containing legitimate

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