illicit Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective contrary to accepted morality (especially sexual morality) or convention
    • an illicit association with his secretary
  2. adjective satellite contrary to or forbidden by law
    illegitimate; outlaw; unlawful; outlawed.
    • an illegitimate seizure of power
    • illicit trade
    • an outlaw strike
    • unlawful measures

WordNet


Il*lic"it adjective
Etymology
L. illicitus; pref. il- not + licitus, p.p. of licere to be allowed or permitted: cf. F. illicite. See In- not, and License.
Definitions
  1. Not permitted or allowed; prohibited; unlawful; as, illicit trade; illicit intercourse; illicit pleasure.
    One illicit . . . transaction always leads to another. Burke.
    -- Il*lic"it*ly, adv. -- Il*lic"it*ness, n.

Webster 1913