Synonyms of illicit

illicit

adjective

(ˌ)i(l)-ˈli-sət 

as in illegal

contrary to or forbidden by law

had a long history of using illicit drugs

Synonyms & Similar Words

• illegal
• unlawful
• criminal
• felonious
• unauthorized
• wrongful
• forbidden
• illegitimate
• prohibited
• lawless
• immoral
• sinful
• criminalized
• evil
• unethical
• shameful
• wrong
• wicked
• unsanctioned
• bad
• unlicensed
• contraband
• reprehensible
• proscribed
• under-the-table
• outlawed
• unscrupulous
• blameworthy
• corrupt
• discouraged
• barred
• disallowed
• censurable
• interdicted
• banned
• villainous
• unprincipled
• under-the-counter
• bootleg
• blamable
• adulterine

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• legal
• legitimate
• lawful
• good
• ethical
• right
• permitted
• righteous
• virtuous
• just
• authorized
• principled
• licensed
• approved
• endorsed
• proper
• correct
• allowed
• promoted
• supported
• sanctioned
• decent
• suggested
• encouraged
• abetted
• decorous
• seemly

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of illicit

Such cases are complex and often take years to build, meaning illicit goods often continue flowing into the US market at below fair-market prices, undermining US commerce. — Laura Curtis, Fortune, 13 Aug. 2026

The illicit cotton, which was stuffed into three large duffel bags, still contained seeds—a big no-no for CBP. — Kate Nishimura, Footwear News, 13 Aug. 2026

Wall Street analysts expect retatrutide to be a blockbuster, but have voiced concern about the illicit market. — Daniel Gilbert, CBS News, 12 Aug. 2026

Most important, weak states will need to tamp down local corruption and illicit mining by encouraging transparent transactions, judicial reforms, and enforcement of rules and regulations. — Eghosa E. Osaghae, Foreign Affairs, 11 Aug. 2026