Illicit

/ɪˈlɪsɪt/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Forbidding by law, rules, or custom; illegal or unlawful.

The authorities cracked down on the illicit drug trade in the city.

Not permitted or authorized; forbidden.

The school has a zero tolerance policy for illicit substances.

Contrary to accepted morality or ethics; unlawful in a moral sense.

He was involved in an illicit affair that caused a scandal.

From Latin 'illicitus', meaning 'not permitted, unlawful'.

illicit affair

A romantic relationship that is secret and considered wrong or immoral.

illicit trade

Trade of goods that are illegal or banned.

illicit drugs

Substances that are illegal to sell or consume.

licit

Permitted by law; legal.

illegality

The state of being illegal.

Under-the-table

They were making some under-the-table deals.

Bootleg

He's been bootlegging alcohol for years.