illicit

adjective

(ˌ)i(l)-ˈli-sət How to pronounce illicit (audio)
Definition of illicitnext
as in illegal
contrary to or forbidden by law had a long history of using illicit drugs

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of illicit Undercover recordings allegedly captured Owens detailing how public officials could be bribed and how the illicit funds could be laundered through businesses and campaign donations, the outlet reported. — Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 30 June 2026 So far this year, 17 tons of illicit drugs, mostly cocaine, have been seized in the Pacific region – more than three times the total across the whole of last year, according to the Australian Federal Police. — Hilary Whiteman, CNN Money, 26 June 2026 The worrisome drug withdrawal popping up in jails A powerful tranquilizer has started to accompany fentanyl in the country’s illicit opioid supply, and jails are struggling to handle the drug’s excruciating, complicated withdrawal symptoms. — O. Rose Broderick, STAT, 26 June 2026 Australian Federal Police via AP Six others allegedly involved in the importation of the cocaine had previously been arrested and charged with offenses related to illicit drugs possession, police said. — CBS News, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for illicit
Recent Examples of Synonyms for illicit
  1. unlawful
  2. criminal
Adjective
  • Kayden Bordley, 19, faces one count each of second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon, and two counts of armed criminal action, according to a Jackson County charging document.
    — Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 7 July 2026
  • The hours-long pandemonium involved some teenaged children and young adults throwing mortars, fireworks and more at those who crowded about and at police officers, a grocery store getting merchandise stolen and an unlawful assembly declared.
    — Sierra van der Brug, Oc Register, 6 July 2026
Definition of unlawful
Adjective
  • Kayden Bordley, 19, faces one count each of second-degree murder and unlawful use of a weapon, and two counts of armed criminal action, according to a Jackson County charging document.
    — Caroline Zimmerman, Kansas City Star, 7 July 2026
  • The Chino Police Department is leading the criminal investigation.
    — Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 7 July 2026
Definition of criminal

Browse Nearby Words

illiberalness
illicit
illimitable
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Illicit.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/illicit. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on illicit

Nglish: Translation of illicit for Spanish Speakers

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