Legitimacy

/lɪˈdʒɪtɪməsi/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The quality or state of being legitimate; lawfulness, validity, or authenticity.

The legitimacy of the new law was questioned by several legal experts.

The right and acceptance of an authority, usually a governing law or a regime.

The government’s legitimacy was challenged after the controversial election.

The extent to which a system, institution, or organization is trusted and accepted by the public.

The agency needs to improve its transparency to gain public legitimacy.

Derived from the Latin word 'legitimus', meaning 'lawful'.

legitimacy crisis

A situation where a government or institution is perceived to lack legitimacy.

legitimacy test

An evaluation of the validity or justification of something.

legal legitimacy

The status of being lawful and recognized by law.

legitimate

Conforming to established rules or laws; lawful.

legitimize

To make legitimate; to justify or validate.

legal

Relating to the law; permissible by law.

Street cred

He's got the street cred to back up his claims of legitimacy in the scene.

Real deal

That movement was the real deal, showing legit legitimacy behind it.