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

While all are statutorily required to report illicit content, there’s a huge disparity regarding the timeliness and actionability of that data. — Charlie Campbell, Time, 20 July 2026

Along with a life sentence, he was also ordered to forfeit $15 billion; however, prosecutors have yet to locate the bulk of the illicit profits. — Chloe Atkins, NBC news, 20 July 2026

But implementation has been spotty, forcing women to seek illicit procedures. — Monika Pronczuk, Los Angeles Times, 20 July 2026

The singer laughed off illicit insinuations that have taken the internet by storm since video of the interview went viral. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 20 July 2026