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Definition of illicitly

illicitly

/ɪˈlɪs.ɪt.li/
il · lic · it · ly
Adjective:illicit
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illicitly Lexical Profile

illicitly Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

In a manner that is forbidden by law, official rules, or established social custom.

Example

"The antiquities had been illicitly exported from the country before being recovered by museum curators."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for illicitly
Antonyms
View all antonyms for illicitly

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'illicitly' (unlawfully or improperly) with the near-homophone verb 'elicit' (to draw out a response or reaction).

• Rhymes for illicitly

• Nearby Words

illegitimately
illiberal
illicit
illicitly
illicitness
illilouette
illimani

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from 'illicit' plus the adverbial suffix '-ly', with 'illicit' deriving via Middle French from Latin 'illicitus', meaning 'not allowed' or 'unlawful' (from 'in-', not, and 'licere', to be permitted).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Illicitly. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/illicitly
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