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Meaning of illegitimate
The primary meaning of the word "illegitimate" is something that is not authorized or approved by law or convention.
Etymology of illegitimate
The word "illegitimate" originated from the Latin words "in-" (meaning "not") and "legitimus" (meaning "lawful" or "authorized"), with the suffix "-ate" added to form an adjective.
Historically, the term was used to describe children born out of wedlock, but its usage has since expanded to include a broader range of meanings related to legality, authenticity, and convention.
Synonyms
unlawful
unauthorized
illegitimate
unlicensed
illegal
lawless
illicit
unlawful
criminal
fraudulent
fake
bogus
spurious
counterfeit
sham
pseudo
unauthorized
unapproved
unsanctioned
improper
inappropriate
irregular
unorthodox
unconventional
abnormal
unnatural
illegitimate
bastard
baseborn
misbegotten
unnatural
unapproved
unacknowledged
unauthenticated
unverified
false
forged
fictitious
pretended
feigned
simulated
deceptive
dishonest
corrupt
crooked
shady
suspicious
dubious
questionable
unauthorized
unlicensed
unpermitted
prohibited
forbidden
banned
unlawful
illegal
illicit
criminal
wrong
improper
inappropriate
indecent
unseemly
unbecoming
unsuitable
unfitting
unbefitting
unprofessional
unethical
immoral
unjust
unfair
inequitable
unreasonable
unjustified
unfounded
ungrounded
unwarranted
unmerited
undeserved
unjustifiable
inexcusable
unpardonable
unforgivable
Definitions
- Not legally recognized or authorized
- * Not genuine or authentic
- * Not in accordance with established customs or conventions
- * Born to parents who are not married to each other
Usage Examples
- The company's illegitimate business practices led to a major scandal.
- * The artist's illegitimate signature on the painting made it difficult to verify its authenticity.
- * The illegitimate child was denied inheritance rights due to the laws of the time.
- * The government cracked down on illegitimate online activities, such as hacking and cyberbullying.
Antonyms
legitimate
lawful
authorized
legal
genuine
authentic
valid
sanctioned
approved
permitted
allowed
licensed
certified
verified
authenticated
recognized
acknowledged
justified
warranted
merited
deserved
justified
excusable
forgivable
pardonable
reasonable
equitable
fair
just
moral
ethical
professional
proper
suitable
fitting
becoming
decent
seemly
befitting
lawful
legal
legitimate
official
proper
rightful
sanctioned
authorized
approved
permitted
allowed
licensed
certified
validated
confirmed
established
recognized
acknowledged