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 decision came as part of the president’s annual determination identifying major drug-transit or illicit drug-producing countries. — Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 16 Sep. 2026

But the underlying transactions, especially the possibility that money was transferred through illicit means, could invite a host of criminal-law ramifications, including fraud, conspiracy and money laundering. — Michael McCann, Sportico.com, 14 Sep. 2026

Sources state thatNew York leads the nation in inbound cigarette smuggling, with more than half of the cigarettes consumed in the state originating from illicit sources. — Ascend Agency, New York Daily News, 11 Sep. 2026

Their influence and illicit networks extend far beyond Brazil’s borders. — Maria Verza, Chicago Tribune, 10 Sep. 2026