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.

It is estimated illegal streaming costs legitimate companies billions of pounds.

From BBC • May 23, 2026

The Cuban government said in a statement that the 1996 shootdown was "legitimate self-defense" against an airspace violation.

From Barron's • May 21, 2026

The focus of its latest announcement is not so much an egg as an artificial eggshell — though the company defends its labeling the technology as an “artificial egg” as legitimate.

From Los Angeles Times • May 21, 2026

Footage and images related to the attacks were also viewed numerous times by Nottinghamshire Police staff without a legitimate policing purpose.

From BBC • May 21, 2026

I have legitimate reasons for not doing my work.

From "Challenger Deep" by Neal Shusterman

Vocabulary lists containing legitimate

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