Definition

Not allowed by law or rules; often refers to something that is not recognized as valid or proper.

Example

The court declared the contract illegitimate due to the lack of proper signatures.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new law?

Yeah, some people are saying it's illegitimate and shouldn't be enforced.

I agree, it seems really unfair to a lot of people.

Exactly, laws shouldn't be made if they don't follow proper guidelines.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Illegitimate → It is formed from "il-" (meaning not) and "legitimus" (meaning lawful or legitimate). The word describes something that is not lawful or not in accordance with established rules or standards.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('il-') and 'lawful' ('legitimus') to remember that 'illegitimate' means something that is not lawful.

Visually Confused Words