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.

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

"People are responding to legitimate pressures and legitimate concerns and anxieties they have."

From Barron's • Jun. 1, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • May 28, 2026

There is a legitimate debate about whether this situation was driven purely by data-center demand or by a decade-old supply agreement running its course.

From MarketWatch • May 27, 2026

It was an awkward but legitimate question for one Persian to ask another.

From "Darius the Great Is Not Okay" by Adib Khorram

Vocabulary lists containing legitimate

The Real Deal: Synonyms for "True"

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"Diary of a Wimpy Kid" by Jeff Kinney

Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!

100 SAT Words Beginning with "J," "K," and "L"

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!