complicit

[kuhm-plis-it] / kəmˈplɪs ɪt /

ADJECTIVE

associated with unethical activity

Synonyms

STRONGEST

conniving

STRONG

deceitful duplicitous scheming

WEAK

adept calculating canny chary craft cunning discreet guileful politic slippery strategic wily

Antonyms

STRONGEST

clear forthright honest open

STRONG

naïve straightforward unassuming

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Cambodia has denied suggestions its government is complicit.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

In this, they become complicit through tacit consent.

From Salon • Mar. 3, 2026

He has previously said he was not complicit or culpable in Epstein's crimes and has apologised to the women and girls who suffered.

From BBC • Feb. 4, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 22, 2026

I don’t know what complicit means but I can guess.

From "The Knife of Never Letting Go" by Patrick Ness