Definition: [adjective] conforming to the law or to rules.
Example: his claims to legitimate authority
Definition: [adjective] able to be defended with logic or justification; valid.
Example: a legitimate excuse for being late
Definition: [adjective] constituting or relating to serious drama as distinct from musical comedy, revue, etc.
Example: the legitimate theatre
Definition: [verb] make lawful or justify.
Example: the regime was not legitimated by popular support