Illegitimate Definition

illegitimate
adjective
  1. contrary to or forbidden by law; "an illegitimate seizure of power"; "illicit trade"; "an outlaw strike"; "unlawful measures"
  2. of marriages and offspring; not recognized as lawful
noun
  1. the illegitimate offspring of unmarried parents

"Illegitimate" in song lyrics

See how illegitimate is used in real songs:

  • "Soul is old, rhymes dirty, born illegitimate"
    Akrobatik — Hypocrite
  • "Immaculate conceptions, born illegitimate"
    J-Live — Epilogue
  • "No more than lovers we can be and even that's illegitimate"
    Pretty Willie f/ Omaze — She Got a Man at Home

Usage tips for "illegitimate"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "illegitimate" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for illegitimate to find words that pair well.

Look up another word