What does delegitimise mean?
Delegitimise is a verb that means to strip or deprive someone or something of legitimacy. This can be done by discrediting their actions or claims, often through criticism or evidence of wrongdoing. The word is often used in formal or academic contexts, but can also be used in informal contexts to describe the process of discrediting someone or something. Delegitimise can have negative connotations, so be cautious when using it. The word is derived from the Latin words 'delegare' and 'legitimacy', and is related to the words 'delegate' and 'authorize'. In English, delegitimise is often used in the present participle form 'delegitimizing', and the past tense 'delegitimized'. The word has been in use since the mid-20th century, and has become increasingly popular in recent years. Delegitimise is a useful word for describing the process of stripping someone or something of legitimacy, and can be used in a variety of contexts.
verbTo strip or deprive someone or something of legitimacy, often by discrediting or discrediting their actions or claims.
- To strip or deprive someone or something of legitimacy, often by discrediting or discrediting their actions or claims.
"The government's actions were widely criticized and eventually delegitimized the entire administration."
"The government's actions were widely criticized and eventually delegitimized the entire administration."
"The company's shady business practices delegitimized their entire brand."
The plural form of delegitimise is used to describe the process of stripping multiple people or things of legitimacy.
"The company's shady business practices delegitimized their entire brand, and the entire industry was delegitimized as a result."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of delegitimise
The word delegitimise is derived from the Latin words 'delegare' and 'legitimacy'. 'Delegare' means 'to delegate' or 'to entrust', while 'legitimacy' refers to the quality of being legitimate. The word delegitimise entered the English language in the mid-20th century, and has since become a common term in formal and academic contexts.
How delegitimise is actually used
Delegitimise is often used in formal or academic contexts to describe the process of stripping someone or something of legitimacy. It can also be used in informal contexts to describe the process of discrediting someone or something. Be cautious when using this word, as it can have negative connotations.