Illegittime

Illegittime is the plural form of illegittimo in Italian, used as an adjective meaning not legitimate and, in older usage, as a noun referring to people or things that lack legitimacy. In historical contexts, illegittime commonly referred to children born outside marriage, i.e., illegitimate children, with the corresponding term for those born within wedlock being legittimi. The word derives from Latin illegitimus, from in- (not) plus legitimus (legitimate).

Historically, illegitimacy carried social stigma and, in many legal systems, practical disadvantages in areas such as inheritance, guardianship, and parental rights. Legal frameworks often distinguished between legitimate and illegitimate offspring, shaping issues of succession and status. Over time, reforms in many countries moved toward neutral language and the equal treatment of children regardless of birth status. Legitimacy could still be acknowledged or conferred through mechanisms such as legittimazione (legitimation), for example through marriage of the parents or formal recognition, with varying effects depending on jurisdiction.

In contemporary usage, illegittime is largely encountered in historical, literary, or descriptive contexts. Modern Italian tends to use neutral expressions, such as figli nati fuori dal matrimonio, to avoid stigmatizing language. In official or legal discourse, terminology has shifted toward equality and non-discrimination, reducing the relevance of birth status in determining a child’s rights and status.