Illegitimacy refers to the status of a child born to parents who are not legally married to each other. Historically, children born out of wedlock faced social stigma and legal disadvantages, such as limited inheritance rights. The term is often associated with societal norms and legal frameworks that define family structures. In modern times, the perception of illegitimacy has evolved, with many societies becoming more accepting of diverse family arrangements. Today, children born to unmarried parents may have the same legal rights and protections as those born to married couples, reflecting changing attitudes towards family and relationships.