Word of the Day
August 18, 2020
Delegitimize
To diminish or destroy the legitimacy, prestige, or authority of a person, institution, or idea, often through systematic criticism or characterization as illegitimate.
From the prefix 'de-' (removal) combined with 'legitimate' (from Latin 'legitimus' meaning lawful), emerging in political discourse during the 20th century to describe efforts to undermine perceived authority or credibility.
Usage Examples
- Critics argue that labeling all immigration enforcement as racist seeks to delegitimize border security policy.
- The campaign to delegitimize the Electoral College gained momentum after the 2016 election.
- Cancel culture operates by delegitimizing individuals who express dissenting viewpoints.
From the Show
The tactic of delegitimization dominated the August 18, 2020 discussion as David Horowitz explained how accusations of racism serve to delegitimize political opponents rather than engage their arguments substantively.