Meaning & Definition of word "Legitimacy"
Legitimacy
/lɪˈdʒɪtɪməsi/
noun:
- 1. The quality or state of being legitimate; lawfulness, validity, or authenticity.
- Example: The legitimacy of the new law was questioned by several legal experts.
- 2. The right and acceptance of an authority, usually a governing law or a regime.
- Example: The government’s legitimacy was challenged after the controversial election.
- 3. The extent to which a system, institution, or organization is trusted and accepted by the public.
- Example: The agency needs to improve its transparency to gain public legitimacy.
Etymology
●Derived from the Latin word 'legitimus', meaning 'lawful'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
legitimate:
Conforming to established rules or laws; lawful.
legitimize:
To make legitimate; to justify or validate.
legal:
Relating to the law; permissible by law.
Slang Meanings of legitimacy
Meaning: Street cred
● Example Sentence: He's got the street cred to back up his claims of legitimacy in the scene.
Meaning: Real deal
● Example Sentence: That movement was the real deal, showing legit legitimacy behind it.