Illegitimate: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe something that lacks legal or moral basis, or a child born out of wedlock.

• He was considered an illegitimate heir to the throne.
• Back in the day, children born to unmarried parents were unfairly labeled as illegitimate.

Typically used to describe activities or substances that are forbidden by law, but also often denotes secret or morally questionable behavior.

• The group was involved in illicit drug trafficking.
• They had an illicit love affair.

Generally used to describe actions or behavior that is not authorized by law. It sounds more formal than 'illegal'.

• Their unlawful actions led to serious consequences.
• He was charged with unlawful possession of a firearm.

Use this word to describe something that is not in accordance with the law or rules, often used in formal contexts such as legal or political discussions. It can also refer to children born to parents who are not married to each other.

• The government declared the new law illegitimate.
• He discovered that he was an illegitimate child.

This word has a very negative connotation and is often considered offensive. It refers to a child born to parents who are not married, but it can also be used as a derogatory term to insult someone.

• In medieval times, being called a bastard was a significant social stigma.
• Why is he acting like such a bastard?

This word describes activities that are illegal or forbidden by law, often used in contexts discussing crime, drugs, or forbidden relationships.

• The police are cracking down on illicit drug trade.
• Their illicit affair was discovered by the media.