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Definition of delegitimize

delegitimize

/diːˌlɪˈdʒɪtɪmaɪz/
(UK: delegitimise)
de · le · git · i · mize
Past Simple:delegitimized
•
Past Participle:delegitimized
•
Present Participle:delegitimizing
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delegitimize Lexical Profile

delegitimize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To withdraw, diminish, or destroy the legitimacy, authority, or validity of something.

Example

"Critics argued that the widespread electoral irregularities served to delegitimize the newly formed government."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for delegitimize

• Nearby Words

delegate
delegation
delegator
delegitimize
deletable
delete
deletion

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-20th century from the prefix 'de-' and 'legitimize', which ultimately traces back to the Medieval Latin 'legitimare' (to make lawful), derived from the Latin 'lex' (law).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Delegitimize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/delegitimize
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