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.

Showing his speed is legitimate will help with his football recruiting going into his senior year in the fall.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

Investors shared this opinion, arguing that Palantir was more of a glorified consultancy than a legitimate tech company.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 4, 2026

The central strategic question No Kings must now answer, according to political scientist Hahrie Han, is not whether the protests are legitimate, but whether they are durable.

From Salon • Apr. 4, 2026

But in the process it is alienating many Russians, especially young people, and depriving citizens of legitimate outlets for airing their grievances.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

It’s just as legitimate to add ize to the end of a word as it is to add un or pre to the beginning.

From "Woe Is I" by Patricia T. O'Conner

legitimate

Example Sentences

Related Words