Illegitimized

To declare or make something illegitimate; to deprive something of legitimacy or validity. This often applies to actions, ideas, relationships, or even individuals. The process involves undermining established rules, norms, or recognized standards, thereby stripping the subject of its accepted status. The act frequently carries moral, social, or legal implications, signifying a challenge to the established order and potentially resulting in exclusion, rejection, or loss of rights and privileges. It can involve denouncing, discrediting, or labeling something as invalid or unacceptable, ultimately weakening its authority and acceptance.

Illegitimized meaning with examples

• The council's decision to seize private property was widely considered an act that illegitimized the very foundation of their ethical standing. This caused uproar. Citizens protested, arguing the action contradicted their charter, demonstrating how their actions were unlawful and undermined their leadership within the community. Their attempts to justify their actions only served to deepen the public's distrust of them.
• The author used historical evidence to expose the corruption of the ruling dynasty, seeking to illegitimize their claims to the throne. He wanted to show how their power was built on deceit. The revelations undermined their legitimacy, sparking rebellions as people lost faith in their leadership. His work fundamentally challenged the established order and paved the way for social change, questioning the established hierarchy of rulers.
• Critics accused the company of using deceptive marketing tactics to illegitimize its competitors. They alleged that the company was spreading lies about its rivals. This action, viewed as unfair competition, damaged the public's perception and harmed the targeted businesses. This undermined trust in the market, causing distrust in the system for businesses.
• The new law was specifically designed to illegitimize certain marriage types, causing uproar. The supporters wanted to protect the traditional order. This action excluded many from legal protection and social acceptance, triggering protests. By limiting civil rights it showed discrimination, violating human rights.