Forbidden by law, rules, or custom; unlawful or improper. Something that is not legally permitted or socially acceptable.
From Latin 'illicitus', combining 'in-' (not) with 'licitus' (lawful, permitted), from 'licere' meaning 'to be allowed'. The word entered English through French in the early 17th century.
The word 'illicit' often carries more moral weight than simply 'illegal' - it suggests not just law-breaking but violation of social norms or ethics. This subtle distinction makes it particularly useful for describing activities that might be technically legal but socially disapproved.
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