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

The deployment and use of cameras to capture proof of the illicit feedings may also be necessary. — Michael L. Hyman, Miami Herald, 23 Sep. 2026

But when the canal turns out to be the site of illicit Russian mafia activities, Irwin becomes a witness and must evade the mob and its threats to his family while relying on his partner and former cop brother to help get him out of trouble. — Isabella Albaig, Vulture, 22 Sep. 2026

Meanwhile, Joe’s search for answers leads the team to Dmitri Sokolov, a Russian national with ties to contractors and illicit operations. — Deirdre Durkan, PEOPLE, 20 Sep. 2026

The underlying reality was an illicit syndicate that no single system had connected. — Vishal Marria, Forbes.com, 18 Sep. 2026