legitimation

noun

1. (uncountable, usually)The process of making or declaring a person legitimate.

   “The Harvard psychologist and bestselling author Steven Pinker appeared on the podcast of Aporia, an outlet whose owners advocate for a revival of race science and have spoken of seeking “legitimation by association” by platforming more mainstream figures.”

2. (obsolete, uncountable, usually)Legitimacy.

   “I am not Sir Roberts sonne, / I haue disclaim'd Sir Robert and my land, / Legitimation, name, and all is gone […].”

3. (uncountable, usually)The act of establishing something as lawful; authorization.

   “Le Paige established a legitimation for the Parlement's authority which was part history, part romantic fiction, and part political wishful thinking.”