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Definition of legalization

legalization

/ˌliː.ɡəl.əˈzeɪ.ʃən/
(UK: legalisation)
le · gal · i · za · tion
Adverb:legally
•
Plural:legalizations
•
Adjective:legal
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legalization Lexical Profile

legalization Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The action or process of making something that was previously unlawful permissible by law.

Example

"The legislature held several public hearings to debate the economic impact of the legalization of recreational cannabis."

2

The official authentication or certification of a legal document by an authorized public official or consulate so that it is recognized in a foreign jurisdiction.

Example

"Before the corporate contract could be enforced overseas, it required formal legalization by the embassy."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for legalization
Antonyms
View all antonyms for legalization

Word Nuance & Usage

'Legalization' should be distinguished from 'decriminalization': legalization makes an activity fully lawful and often regulated, whereas decriminalization removes criminal penalties while still potentially treating the act as a civil infraction.

• Rhymes for legalization

• Nearby Words

legalism
legalist
legality
legalization
legalize
legally
legation

Cite this Entry

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