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

In Beverly Hills around this time, parents created late-night gatherings for high schoolers that did not involve alcohol as an alternative to the illicit ragers. — Deputy Managing Editor, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 2026

These songs felt a little like that—a way to peer into other people’s affairs, knowing just enough to feel the illicit thrill of some faraway tryst. — Grayson Haver Currin, Pitchfork, 30 Aug. 2026

Deli containers, those clear plastic cylinders that hold bagel schmears, premade pasta salads, and the occasional illicit public beach cocktail, enjoy vaunted status in the food world. — Wilder Davies, Bon Appetit Magazine, 28 Aug. 2026

The Lake County State's Attorney said an investigation starting in June 2026 found illicit activity on a peer-to-peer file-sharing network. — Elyssa Kaufman, CBS News, 27 Aug. 2026