An "illegitimate child," often referred to as a "bastard," is a child born to parents who are not legally married to each other at the time of the child's birth. Historically, such children faced social stigma and legal disadvantages, including issues related to inheritance and parental rights. In many cultures, the term has evolved, and the focus has shifted towards the child's rights and welfare rather than the marital status of the parents. Today, laws in many countries, including those related to child support and inheritance, have been updated to provide equal rights to all children, regardless of their parents' marital status.