Illegitimate

usgb/ˌɪləˈdʒɪtəmət/
adjective

Not recognized by the law as being legally married or born to parents who are legally married.

He was the illegitimate son of the king.
Visual representation of "illegitimate" - Not recognized by the law as being legally married or born to parents who are legally married.

Often appears as...

  • illegitimate child
  • illegitimate son
Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "illegitimate"
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Legal Context

Used to describe someone's status in relation to laws of inheritance and marriage.

Illustration for Legal Context
The lawyer clarified that the estate could not be passed to an illegitimate heir.
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Historical Usage

Historically, focused on birth status; now often about legal recognition in various contexts.

Illustration for Historical Usage
The novel set in the 18th century explores the struggles of an illegitimate offspring.
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Sensitive Term

May be seen as offensive; sensitive situations call for terms like 'born out of wedlock'.

Illustration for Sensitive Term
In official forms, children are referred to as illegitimate less frequently now.
Visual representation of the word "Illegitimate"

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