Illegitimacies

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The state of being born to parents who are not legally married to each other
2. Actions or circumstances that deviate from accepted social norms, often concerning family structure
3. The quality of being considered unlawful or not recognized by established laws, particularly regarding familial relations

Etymology: "Illegitimacies" is simply the plural of "illegitimacy," so it inherits its history. That noun is built from "illegitimate," which itself combines the prefix "il-" (meaning "not") with "legitimate," the adjective for something lawful or rightful. The suffix "-cy" turns the adjective into a noun denoting a state or quality, so "illegitimacy" is literally the condition of not being lawful or rightful. The plural form, "illegitimacies," counts separate instances of that condition, such as particular breaches of accepted norms. The word's sense has narrowed over time, and today it most often refers to the status of a child born to unmarried parents. Its broader meaning of anything improper or unlawful remains available, which is why "illegitimacies" can describe a range of departures from accepted social practice, not only those touching on family.

Synonyms: illegitimacy, illicitness

Antonyms: legitimacy, validity