illicit
Illicit (adjective) means not permitted by law or social convention; forbidden. Example: “Police seized a large quantity of illicit drugs at the port.”
How to use illicit
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishForbidden — either by law or by social rules — often carries a hint of secrecy.
Don't confuse with "elicit" (to draw out a response), which sounds similar but means something completely different.
Word forms
more illicit comparative, illicits plural, most illicit superlative
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Police seized a large quantity of _____ drugs at the port.
Etymology
Borrowed from French illicite, from Latin illicitus — in- ("not") + licitus ("allowed").
Rhymes for illicit
See all rhymes for illicit →Frequently asked questions
What does “illicit” mean?
The word “illicit” means not permitted by law or social convention; forbidden. In plain terms, forbidden — either by law or by social rules — often carries a hint of secrecy.
How do you pronounce “illicit”?
“Illicit” is pronounced ih-LIH-siht (/ɪˈlɪsɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “illicit” in a sentence?
Here is “illicit” used in a sentence: “Police seized a large quantity of illicit drugs at the port.”
What part of speech is “illicit”?
“Illicit” is an adjective.
Where does the word “illicit” come from?
The word “illicit” comes from Latin. Borrowed from French illicite, from Latin illicitus — in- ("not") + licitus ("allowed").
Is “illicit” a common word?
“Illicit” is an uncommon word in modern English.