complicit

American  

[kuhm-plis-it] / kəmˈplɪs ɪt /

adjective

1. choosing to be involved in an illegal or questionable act, especially with others; having complicity.

---

complicit British  

/ ˌkɒmˈplɪsɪt /

adjective

1. involved with others in reprehensible or illegal activity

---

Etymology

Origin of complicit

First recorded in 1855–60; back formation from complicity

Compare meaning

How does complicit compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• complicit vs. complacent

Example Sentences

For a long while, the Oscars have been complicit in lowering expectations of Hollywood animation.

From Los Angeles Times

She’s quickly caught up in a complex web of deception, in which she may be complicit.

From Los Angeles Times

They said they were "engaged in or complicit in the culture of unlawful information gathering that wrecked the lives of so many".

From BBC

Lighthouse followers were seen shouting at BBC staff, accusing them of being "complicit" and asking "don't you have any shame?"

From BBC

He said he would have apologised were he "in any way complicit or culpable" but stressed that was never the case.

From BBC

Related Words

• conniving