American English
/ˌɪ.lɪˈʤɪ.ɾəˌmeɪt̚/
5 syllables · Stress the third syllable.
Not accepted as valid, fair, or lawful because it lacks proper authority, a sound basis, or good reason.
As an adjective or noun, “illegitimate” is pronounced /ˌɪ.lɪˈʤɪ.ɾə.mət̚/. As a verb, it is pronounced /ˌɪ.lɪˈʤɪ.ɾəˌmeɪt̚/, with the main stress in a different place.
Not accepted as valid, fair, or lawful because it lacks proper authority, a sound basis, or good reason.
The court rejected the illegitimate claim.
The group called the election illegitimate.
“Illegitimate” does not always mean “illegal.” It can also mean not properly justified or accepted.
illegitimate claim · illegitimate use of force · illegitimate authority · illegitimate government
illegitimate + noun
be considered illegitimate
Born to parents who were not married to each other.
The novel tells the story of an illegitimate child.
Historical records described him as illegitimate.
For a person, this word is dated and can be offensive. Say “born to unmarried parents” instead.
illegitimate child
an illegitimate child
be described as illegitimate